Can’t delete a shortcut from desktop? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many users encounter this issue from time to time, and it can be quite frustrating. Whether it’s due to a corrupted shortcut file or a system error, the inability to delete a shortcut from the desktop can disrupt your workflow. In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons behind this problem and provide you with effective solutions to resolve it.
Firstly, it’s essential to understand why you can’t delete a shortcut from the desktop. One common reason is that the shortcut file is corrupted or has become locked. This can happen due to various factors, such as incomplete installation of software, virus infections, or system errors. Another reason could be that the shortcut is linked to a program or file that is currently running or in use.
Here are some steps you can take to delete a shortcut from the desktop that won’t budge:
1.
Check if the shortcut is locked:
– Right-click on the shortcut and select “Properties.”
– Look for the “Security” tab and click on it.
– If the shortcut is locked, you’ll see a lock icon next to the owner’s name. Click on the “Edit” button and change the owner to your username. This will unlock the shortcut.
2.
Use the Command Prompt:
– Press “Windows Key + R” to open the Run dialog box.
– Type “cmd” and press “Enter” to open the Command Prompt.
– Navigate to the desktop directory by typing “cd Desktop” and pressing “Enter.”
– To delete the shortcut, type “del shortcutname.lnk” (replace “shortcutname” with the actual name of the shortcut) and press “Enter.”
3.
Use the “Shift + Delete” keyboard shortcut:
– Select the shortcut you want to delete.
– Press and hold the “Shift” key while right-clicking on the shortcut.
– Choose “Delete” from the context menu. This will permanently delete the shortcut without sending it to the Recycle Bin.
4.
Use a third-party tool:
– If the above methods don’t work, you can try using a third-party tool like CCleaner or IObit Uninstaller. These tools can help you remove stubborn files and shortcuts that are difficult to delete manually.
By following these steps, you should be able to delete the stubborn shortcut from your desktop. However, if the problem persists, it may be worth seeking further assistance from a professional or checking for system updates and malware scans to ensure your computer is running smoothly.
