How do I uninstall a file that's "in use" even though it's not?

Question

I transfered a file from my desktop to my laptop using Yahoo! instant messenger. The file was not received correctly (in fact, there were three files total), and I can't double click to Run the program. I can't even delete it - every time I try to, it says that another application is using it, even though nothing's running. I've even rebooted to make sure Yahoo! wasn't still using the file. I've tried booting the new Gateway laptop into SAFE mode, but don't know how (usually SAFE mode will allow me to delete stubborn items). Pressing F8 during startup doesn't work. Please help...is there a way to force delete it or see what program is still using it?

Answer 1

-EDITED-
if the instructions to start safemode the alternate way do not work, download hijack this from download.com. but i'd recommend trying the safe mode instructions first.

safe mode should work

If Windows XP is the only operating system installed on your computer, booting into Safe Mode with these instructions.

To use the System Configuration Utility method

Close all open programs.
Click Start, Run and type MSCONFIG in the box and click OK
The System Configuration Utility appears, On the BOOT.INI tab, Check the "/SAFEBOOT" option, and then click OK and Restart your computer when prompted.
The computer restarts in Safe mode.
Perform the troubleshooting steps for which you are using Safe Mode.
When you are finished with troubleshooting in Safe mode, open MSCONFIG again, on the BOOT.INI tab, uncheck "/SAFEBOOT" and click OK to restart your computer

Answer 2

This is occassionally a problem when a file is thought in use, and it may take days for your computer to let you delete it. Or, its hardwired to something that auto runs with start up and needs to be uninstalled completely.

Answer 3

there r some softwares available which can delete forcefully
u can try one.
else try the live cd of any linux one.boot from th elive cd and delete the file.it will work 1oo%

Answer 4

All the answers to your questions are in the following tutorial:

http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/tutorials/tutorial131.html

I just recently wrote this and it will cover information how to remove files that are in use in windows.

Hope this helps