/ How to Delete .EXE or .XXX File

How to Delete .EXE or .XXX File

I changed a file.xxx by renaming it file.exe - then the file became useful - but now I can’t delete the file from my directory. How can I remove the file from my storage? Kate Dubensky

Cannot Delete File Error

Sometimes files and folders can try to entrench themselves on your system and resist removal. When this happens Windows will likely display a Cannot Delete File error message. You might get this message if the computer tells you there isn’t enough available hard disk space or if a relevant program is using the file. If is file is resistant to normal removal techniques, like moving it to the Recycle Bin and then emptying the unwanted files, then there are some more advanced command prompts you can use.

Remove the Errant File

The first thing to do is figure out exactly where the file you want to delete is stored. For example, if you have saved the file to the desktop, make sure that you know the path to find it there. You can use the search tool in the Start Menu to find the path. Write the path down for later.
Next, click the Start button and choose Turn Off Computer, then Restart.
As the computer boots up, start pressing F8 to open the Advanced Menu
Choose Safe Mode with a Command Prompt using the keyboard arrows
Log on to your Administrative user account
In the command prompt type in the letters cd then a space, then the file path you wrote down earlier in quotations
Next, type in the letters del, then a space, then the name of the file you want to delete - for example del thefile.xxx
The file should be gone - go back and make sure it isn’t in the directory

Check the Recycling Bin

If you have tried to remove the file before, you should make sure that it isn’t in the recycling bin, as that might make is more difficult to remove.

Run Virus and Malware Scans

If the file persists, it might contain a malicious file or program. The xxx file extension is a little suspicious, although there are some legitimate files with this extension. You might want to run some full system virus and malware scans to make sure that there aren’t any known problems with the file.