Unlocker Alternatives: Free Tools to Fix Locked Files
Dealing with stubborn files or folders that refuse to be deleted, renamed, or moved can be incredibly frustrating. The error message "file in use" or "cannot delete folder: its being used by another person or program" is all too common for Windows users. This is where Unlocker came in handy, designed to be a simple right-click solution for these exact problems. However, if you're looking for an alternative to Unlocker, whether for new features, better compatibility, or simply a different user experience, you're in luck. There are several powerful and often free tools available that can help you regain control over your files.
Top Unlocker Alternatives
When a file or folder is locked by an unknown process, finding the right tool to unlock and manage it is essential. Below, we've compiled a list of the best Unlocker alternatives, each offering unique benefits to help you resolve those pesky file access issues.
LockHunter
LockHunter is a highly recommended free tool for Windows users that helps delete files blocked by unknown processes, making it an excellent Unlocker alternative. It's particularly useful for fighting against malware and other programs that block files, featuring support for 64-bit systems and seamless integration into the context menu for easy access.
DeadLock
DeadLock is a free and open-source file and folder unlocking utility for Windows. Developed by CodeDead, it provides a straightforward solution when you're unable to delete, copy, or rename files or folders, serving as a reliable Unlocker alternative, especially for those who prefer open-source software.
IObit Unlocker
IObit Unlocker offers a robust solution for "cannot delete" problems on Windows, making it a powerful Unlocker alternative. It helps you bypass annoying messages when trying to delete files or folders, featuring support for multiple languages and convenient presence in the context menu. It's also available as a portable app.
EMCO UnLock IT
EMCO UnLock IT is a neat free utility for Windows that gives you control over files and folders locked by applications or the system. For every locked resource, it provides a list of locking processes, making it an effective Unlocker alternative with excellent Windows Explorer integration.
FileASSASSIN
FileASSASSIN is a lightweight and free application for Windows designed to delete any type of locked files on your computer. Whether the files are from a malware infection or simply blocked, FileASSASSIN provides a direct approach to remove them, serving as a straightforward Unlocker alternative.
ThisIsMyFile
ThisIsMyFile is a fast and effective free tool for Windows users, specifically designed for unlocking or deleting locked or protected files. It's a solid Unlocker alternative that offers efficient file management capabilities.
Wise Force Deleter
Wise Force Deleter offers a free solution for deleting undeletable files or folders on Windows. It effectively helps unlock and delete files marked as 'Access Denied' or 'File in Use,' making it a reliable Unlocker alternative for common file access issues.
Long Path Fixer
Long Path Fixer is a FREE utility for Windows that specializes in moving, copying, renaming, and deleting files and folders with very long paths that exceed Windows API limits. While its primary focus is on long paths, it can indirectly help with some file locking issues by allowing manipulation of otherwise inaccessible files, making it a unique Unlocker alternative.
OpenedFilesView
OpenedFilesView displays a comprehensive list of all opened files on your Windows system, including handle value, access rights (read/write/delete), and more. While not a direct file unlocker itself, it provides valuable information to identify which processes are locking files, indirectly aiding in file management and making it a useful diagnostic Unlocker alternative.
Path Too Long PRO
Path Too Long PRO is a commercial Windows utility designed to remove files that Windows has blocked due to excessively long paths. While a paid solution, it effectively addresses a specific type of file access issue, offering a robust Unlocker alternative for persistent path-related problems.
Whether you're battling a stubborn malware remnant, an application holding onto a file, or simply a system glitch, these Unlocker alternatives provide reliable solutions. Explore their features and platforms to find the best fit for your specific file management needs, and say goodbye to those frustrating 'cannot delete' errors.