Cannot remove PDF from desktop

Forum|Forum|3 years ago
October 19, 2022
5 replies
23772 views

I have a PDF file on my desktop that I cannot remove.

It has a long file name (that I cannot edit), I also cannot open the file and receive the message "There was an error opening this document. The path does not exist".

I no longer require the file so am happy to remove it from my computer.

Any suggestions as to how to remove the file is appreciated as I have tried everything.

General troubleshooting

Correct answer Simon26671943nz7s

Yes, I am on Microsoft Windows 11.

Just to be certain, how do I confirm the I am operating as the
administrator?

Thank you for all your help, I have found a solution.

I used EaseUs BitWiper and used the file shredder function.

F

flawless_wave2594

New Participant

I recommend wise force deleter program.

S

spl47wa5

New Participant

I had the same issue on 19.09.2024 and then I did some research and finally got the solution. Go to this link provided below. The software is called as star locker. Download it and run the software. After opening the software, go to the file location and then select and delete. It worked for me.

link: Download Unlocker for Windows 11, 10, 7, 8/8.1 (64 bit/32 bit) (softradar.com)

ls_rbls

Community Expert

Good deal!

Your welcome.

W

WendyL2013

New Participant

I right-clicked on the file and actually quarantined the file and it went away from my desktop. YAY!!

try67

Community Expert

This is not really an Acrobat issue, but on OS one...

Try renaming the file first, and then deleting it. If that still doesn't work open a command-line to the desktop folder, make sure there are no other PDF files on it (IMPORTANT!) and then run this command:

del *.pdf

S

Simon26671943nz7sAuthor

Inspiring

Unfortunately this doesn't work. I am unable to re-name the file and when I
run the command del *.pdf I receive the message 'the system cannot find
the file specified'.

D

DeanUtian

Community Expert

Are you able to move the file? I would try select the file, then Control + X (cut) , go to a new location and then Control + V (paste). You may be able to delete it once in another location.
If you move it to a folder wihout any other files, you could go to the folder through the Command Prompt and then use: del *.*

ls_rbls

Community Expert

In which operating system is this happening and in which directory path is this file located?

What program are you using to try and open it with?

What it sounds like is that you were working with with a PDF document in Acrobat and save it somewhere, but then manually moved it, renamed it or deleted it from the folder that Acrobat was using before.

I assume you were trying to open such file from the "Recent" home view in Acrobat, correct? Can you confirm?

Would you be able to share a screenshot?