Releasing Windows file share locks

Question

This problem crops up every now and then at work. Our build machine can have it\'s files accessed via a normal windows file share. If someone browses a folder remotely on the ma

Answer 1

Found a solution.

1. Find the process using Process Explorer:

   1. Download and extract procexp.exe
   2. In Process Explorer use the "Find Handle or DLL..." command from the "Find" menu
   3. Enter in the name of the directory which is having trouble deleting
   4. A list of open files which match that name should be shown. Take some guesses and find which one is failing to be deleted. If the file is locked by a windows share, the process holding the file will be System
   5. Note down the directory which was left open

2. Download and install the Unlocker (Warning: Link removed, as it contains malware)

   1. Install Unlocker, disabling the option for Explorer extensions and other junk

3. Unlock the directory

   1. Open up a cmd window, and navigate to C:\Program Files\Unlocker
   2. From the cmd window, run Unlocker.exe "the-path-to-the-locked-folder"
   3. A dialog will pop up confirming the lock release. Use the unlock button to unlock the file

Now the directory should be unlocked, and can now be deleted.