Lockhunter Lets You Delete Files When Windows Doesn’t
It’s been almost a decade since we last checked Lockhunter, an incredibly useful Windows app that makes sure you can always delete files and folders that File Explorer refuses to delete. Developer Crystal Rich Ltd continues to update the app with useful features, but from time to time: it took about 3.5 years to go from version 3.1 of the app to version 3.2.
However, Lockhunter is worth keeping on your Windows desktop or laptop during those rare moments – or not so rare if you’re out of luck – when Windows refuses to let you manage a folder or file because it is locked by someone else. process. … Sometimes you may need to close the incorrect program to regain access to the file. In other cases, you may need to take more drastic action.
(Advice to the reader of Lifehacker GHDave for reminding me of the existence of this useful app .)
You only need to use one installer to install Lockhunter as the application can now detect if you are using 32-bit or 64-bit Windows and install the correct version of the application. After that, if you come across a stubborn file or folder, you can right-click it in File Explorer and select the new “What is blocking this file?”
When LockHunter boots up, you will be given a quick summary of why you cannot manage the file or folder in question. (You can also click on the newly added “More” option to see more specific information about the processes, which could then be killed on the command line using the ” Taskkill ” command .)
LockHunter might try to unblock or delete files on your behalf, and if those options don’t work, you can also try to uninstall the app the next time you restart Windows.
While Lockhunter is simple to implement, it’s a well-designed (albeit rarely updated) app worth keeping in your digital toolbox. Just don’t worry about using its “check for updates” feature – chances are the world will look very, very different by the time Lockhunter 3.3 is released, if ever. We’ll let you know when to look for a new version of the app.
Do you have a Windows app (paid or free) that you really like? Tell us about it: [email protected] .