• ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
  • ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
Guidelines
Ready to level up? Join the Expert Program—
Check out our WINDOWS 11 Support Center info about: OPTIMIZATION, KNOWN ISSUES, FAQs, VIDEOS AND MORE.
HP Recommended

So, it doesn't really have to do with the product, but there is a zip file I can't open, delete, or even FIND, but it's taking up space. How do I resolve thisScreenshot (2).pngScreenshot (3).png

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @GloomiePuddle,

 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

 

It sounds like you're dealing with a corrupt or locked ZIP file that is causing issues with your HP laptop. Here are a few steps you can try to resolve the problem.

 

Check for Hidden Files

Sometimes, files can be hidden due to system settings. To ensure you're viewing all files:

  • Open File Explorer.
  • Go to the View tab and check the Hidden items checkbox to show all files.

Use Command Prompt to Find or Delete the File

You can use Command Prompt to search for the file and attempt to delete it:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator (right-click the Start menu and choose "Command Prompt (Admin)").
  • Use the dir command to search for the file:

dir /s /b "C:\path\to\folder\*filename*.zip"
 

  • If you find the file, you can attempt to delete it using the del command:

del "C:\path\to\file.zip"
 

Use Task Manager to End Related Processes

If the file is being used by a background process, it might be locked.

  • Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
  • Look for any processes that might be using the file, such as a ZIP extraction tool or a file explorer.
  • Right-click the process and select End Task.

Try Safe Mode

Safe Mode prevents unnecessary background processes from running, which might help in deleting the file:

  • Restart your laptop.
  • Press F8 or Shift + F8 while booting (it varies by laptop model).
  • Choose Safe Mode.
  • Try deleting the file in Safe Mode.

 

I hope this helps.

 

Take care and have a good day.

 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

 

Alden4

HP Support 

Raj_05
HP Support Community Moderator
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.