How to force delete a file?

Question

How can i force Windows XP to delete file that is currently being used by some application?

Answer 1

You have to close that appliaction first. There is no way to delete it, if it's used by some application.

Unlocker is a free tool which helps locate any file locking handles running, and give you the option to turn it off. Then you can go ahead and do anything you want with those files

There is another tool called UnLock IT - a neat utility that helps you to take control of any file or folder when it is locked by some application or system. For every locked resource, you get a list of locking processes and can unlock it by terminating those processes. EMCO Unlock IT offers Windows Explorer integration that allows unlocking files and folders by one click in the context menu.

Answer 2

There is a free program called unlocker that can force delete files. Be careful, though, as it should only be used if you are sure no program needs the file. But sometimes, files get locked and never get unlocked; unlocker is great for that.