the action can't be completed because the folder or a file in it is open in another program

Anonymous
2013-03-21T10:22:13+00:00

this is annoying

the files or folders in question are not open in another program, windows is just refusing to let them be moved or deleted due a recent action ie: photographs moved elsewhere etc

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

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments No comments
Answer accepted by question author
Anonymous
2013-03-21T10:43:05+00:00

This may also be helpful:

Open Windows explorer.

Click ‘Organize -> Folder and search options’ (or ‘View -> Folder options’).

Select the ‘View’-tab.

In the ‘Advanced settings’ window, disable ‘Launch folder windows in a separate process’.

You may need to force restart all explorer instances (via task manager) or reboot your computer if the setting is not applied immediately.

Was this answer helpful?

90+ people found this answer helpful.
0 comments No comments

193 additional answers

Sort by: Most helpful
  1. Anonymous
    2015-05-25T12:08:46+00:00

    I agree.  I would far rather have the company be straight and give me a workaround (or say re-boot) or something.  I just want to BE WORKING!

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments No comments
  2. Anonymous
    2015-05-25T12:08:21+00:00

    I agree.  I would far rather have the company be straight and give me a workaround (or say re-boot) or something.  I just want to BE WORKING!

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments No comments
  3. Anonymous
    2015-05-25T12:06:38+00:00

    NO you don't spent $2500 on a Mac.  If you have nested file structure or wifi network with home server you will be 20 times more efficient, as you cannot move a lot of files easily or quickly.  My Mac is a toy for artists, not a business machine.  Both OS systems have advantages, but both are FAR from efficient or intuitive, and the rate of change means the overall frustration in my life is substantially higher.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments No comments
  4. Anonymous
    2015-05-25T12:03:44+00:00

    I agree...I used to be able to pick up a piece of paper and put it in a file.  Now sometimes (why some and not others), I can't pick it up and file it and there appears to be no reason...and being ADD I will never get back to it, so the desk just gets worse rather than better. Maybe a "Manage Mode" that lets the computer know "I will be moving a bunch of files now", so clear them out of the memory of other programs.  HELP!

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments No comments