can't delete file because file is in use

Anonymous
2013-02-22T12:34:36+00:00

So whenever I'm in a file explorer window and I want to delete a file(eg PDF) I get a "File in use" message.

I've figured out that this is caused by the preview pane. No preview pane no message and the file deletes.

I want to know how I can delete a file with the preview pane active because I want to check the contents to make sure it's the correct file I want to delete?

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Files, folders, and storage

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Anonymous
2017-06-18T21:52:58+00:00

Hi Gianluca,

This thread has been created on 2015 and was previously resolved. There has been a lot of changes since then and the resolution provided here may not be applicable anymore. Hence, we recommend you to create your own thread regarding your concern for assistance from our community.

If there's anything else, feel free to reach out to us.

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  1. Anonymous
    2016-01-07T22:39:13+00:00

    This didn't work for me.  Files are PDF

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  2. Anonymous
    2015-12-31T22:55:03+00:00

    Me Too.  The problem is a file explorer setting: "SHOW PREVIEW HANDLERS IN PREVIEW PANE" that needs to be turned off.

    SIMPLE simple SIMPLE SOLUTION...

    (steps for windows 10/other versions-same basic idea)

    1.  Open file explorer window.
    2.  At top, switch to the "VIEW" tab.
    3.  On the right of the toolbar, choose "OPTIONS" (open to change)
    4.  Switch to "VIEW" tab (in options window)
    5.  In the advanced options, find the checkbox for "SHOW PREVIEW HANDLERS IN PREVIEW PANE"
    6.  UNCHECK  "SHOW PREVIEW HANDLERS IN PREVIEW PANE"
    7.  At the bottom, choose "APPLY" and exit out, you should be all good.

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  3. Anonymous
    2015-11-22T12:12:00+00:00

    the problem still persists under Windows 10!!!!

    it is essential to disable the preview pane or use another pdf reader other than ADOBE READER DC to remove files

    Is working with this pdf reader, first uninstall adobe dc reader

    https://www.foxitsoftware.com/products/pdf-reader/

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  4. Anonymous
    2015-11-13T07:00:27+00:00

    Thank you very much 

    SI

    SimpleSolutionsRB that was really helpful.  It worked!

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