Force a file delete 6

[keithinoz]

XP pro sp3 I recently found one of my backup programs (instaback) was using up too much disk space for its backup data. When I tried to delete some of the older files I was refused with a message saying that the files were protected. I have removed the program, checked permissions (it's a stand alone laptop)and tried to delete in safe mode.

What I want to know if anyone knows how to force a file delete using any type of method. I had thought about the old dos methods but are they still available.

As a matter of interest some of the files have no extensions

 

[keithinoz]

Thanks. I ran the windows boot cd and I managed to get rid of another 1300 files but still have 3600 to go. They defied my attempt to change their attributes, permissions etc.

When I ask for attributes I get the following on the screen
"This will clearsystem/hidden/readonly attributes..
Attrib -S -H -R "c:\RECYCLER\NPROTECT\000001613." /S /D
Continue y/n
File not found c:\RECYCLER\NPROTECT\000001613."

It doesn't make sense that it can find the file attributes but not the file?

 

[goombawaho]

Did you try the ATTRIB function from the BartPE command prompt???

 

[keithinoz]

Using BArtPE If I enter DIR I get the list of files in the folder. If I enter the attrib command the return message is can't find the file.

 

[Alshrim]

When i run into issues like this... and assuming you have an NTFS partition, you can right-click the folder you're on and click on security....
Once in there, hit the Advanced button and look at the Owner Tab.
Now sometimes what you have to do before this - and remove all the inherited permissions laid on all the files.
Uncheck that little box in the "permissions' tab.
Go back to Owner, and click the Replace on Subcontainers etc.. etc..

This can take some time - and can be painful if you're asked repeatedly to say YES to replacing the permissions. But once the procedure is done, you are effectively the owner of all the files and can do whatever you want to them.

Try that...


AlRo
System Administrator
Ottawa, Canada.

 

[Alshrim]

That's Right-CLick the folder... Go into PROPERTIES and then SECURITY.. I should really proof-read!!!

AlRo
System Administrator
Ottawa, Canada.

 

[keithinoz]

Sorry for the long delay. I have been trying a lot of things to do with permissions but still no luck in removing the stubborn files.

What I will try next is to an Acronis backup without those files

 

[tlcscousin]

http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/topic56202.html

The link above discusses removing the Norton protected recycle bin.

 

[goombawaho]

That's the link I was looking for and couldn't re-find it again to post in this thread.

 

[LilBob]

A program I use with great success is Unlocker available at:

http://download.cnet.com/Unlocker/3000-2248_4-10493998.html

Worse case scenario, I had to use Windows Explorer to open the folder, expand it & delete sub-folders individually. Hope this helps you in the future.

Bob