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.

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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.

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  1. Anonymous
    2016-02-05T21:29:20+00:00

    That didn't solve the problem. That box is not checked.

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  2. Anonymous
    2015-11-16T19:35:28+00:00

    Does Microsoft NOT have a response?

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  3. Anonymous
    2015-11-14T08:28:47+00:00

    Wow, this actually works! (holding down Ctrl and moving the mouse wheel through different view settings) - thanks! I'm on 8.1 - haven't taken the plunge into 10 yet.

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  4. Anonymous
    2015-11-11T15:40:16+00:00

    Hello,

    Your solution does not work.

    I am running Windows 8.1, fully updated.

    In particular, the error singularly occurs with PDF files, for me.  Specifically, if I preview a file in the navigation pane, I get this error.

    ALL my software is up-to-date:

    • I am a computer user dating back to 1978.  I know what I am doing.  My checkbook is testimony to the tens of thousands of dollars that I have paid to Microsoft.
    • The original post was 03/21/2013; however, I am experiencing the issue 11/11/2015.

    Can you offer another resolution?

    Thank you.

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