Deleted files reappear

Question

Why do files I delete reappear? Is there a way to delete the file and not have Win XP restore it?

DoubleDaffy · Answer

How are you deleting them? Are you dragging them into the recycling bin, or completely demolishing them?

tgsmith · Answer

If you delete them and then do a system restore to a prior date, they will be undeleted.  That's the whole purpose of System Restore.  Easiest way to keep them from reappearing is to turn off System Restore.  Restart Computer.  Turn System Restore back on.  They won't come back then.  And neither will anything else you might need to restore.   Tony

rick935 · Answer

I am not performing a system restore and am deleteing the files by selecting them and hitting the delete key. The files delete and reappear about 3 seconds later. Maybe they are system files or files windows is protecting, but I should still be able to delete whatever I want.

Inspiron 9300, 100G HD, 1G Ram
ATI X300 Graphics

DoubleDaffy · Answer

Are you pressing shift+delete? Because if you do it should COMPLETELY delete it.

tgsmith · Answer

Rick, Maybe we need to start at the beginning.  What type of files are you deleting that reappear?  Are they random desktop links such as those generated by some adware program? Tony

Windows General

Deleted files reappear

Was this post helpful?