File in use error, but what's using it?

humanji

I have a few files on my computer of various sorts that I can't delete normally because I'm told that the files are in use. One of them, for example, is movie file (.avi) that I was trying to put subtitles on. I was using Virtual Dub, and basically it made a huge file at the end, so I wanted to delete it.

But when I delete it, I'm told that it's in use. Virtual Dub is closed down and even after restarts, I can't delete it. I eventually deleted it from the cmd prompt, which is a little annoying.

Anyway, my question: Is there any way of finding out what program is using a file, after you're told that the file is in use? And also, is there an easier way of deleting these files?

Blackhorse Slim

The easy way to delete files like that is to boot into safe mode - press f8 at the start of the boot sequence. Then you can delete almost anything.

Not being able to delete files you should normally be able to delete can sometimes be an indication of a virus or spyware/malware etc, so make sure your anti-virus is up to date.

ActorSeeksJob

Blackhorse Slim pretty much said it all. Files in use can be a sign of malware problems. If you want to delete the files get a program like Killbox! or HijackThis, they can delete those files easily.

Also scan your pc in safe mode with an anti-virus and anti-spyware program.