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Close the application that is locking the folder
- To launch the Task Manager, press "Ctrl + Shift + Esc"
- Look for the program that may be attempting to access the folder that is giving the issue.
- Right-click the program and choose "End task."
- To see whether the issue still exists, try deleting, moving, or renaming the folder once more.
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| How To Fix Folder In Use Windows 11 |
Restarting File Explorer
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- Right-click the taskbar and choose "Task Manager" from the context menu
- Find "Windows Explorer" in the list of running processes, right-click on it, and select "Restart."
- After waiting for File Explorer to start up again, try opening the folder.
Command Prompt Folder Unlock
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- Launch an elevated Command Prompt by pressing "Windows + X" and selecting "Windows Terminal (Admin)".
- Type "handle.exe <folder_path>" (without quotes) and press Enter.
- Write down the PIDs of the folder-locking processes.
- Use "taskkill /PID <PID_number>" (without quotes) and press Enter for each process.
- Rename, move, or delete the folder.
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Folder Manipulation in Safe Mode
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- Open Windows Settings with "Windows + I".
- Select "System" > "Recovery."
- Under "Advanced startup," click "Restart now."
- Select "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Startup Settings."
- Click "Restart" and press "4" or "F4" to boot Safe Mode.
- Try folder operations without other apps.
Conclusion
The "Folder in Use" problem in Windows 11 remains a challenge, but it may be overcome. Following the four techniques in this blog post, you can simply fix this issue and reclaim control over your files and folders. First, check any applications locking the folder and close them using Task Manager. Restarting File Explorer may fix the problem. If that doesn't work, use Command Prompt to unlock the folder and stop the locking procedures. In the worst event, Safe Mode lets you manipulate the folder without interruptions.
QuickTip: Pause at transitions — they signal new ideas.
With these ways, you may fix the "Folder in Use" problem and enjoy easy file management on Windows 11.
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