Article ID: 926189 - Last Review: March 15, 2007 - Revision: 1.6

Error message when you try to delete a Windows Imaging Format file in Windows Vista: "Cannot delete"

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SYMPTOMS

You use the Ximage.exe tool to mount a Microsoft Windows Imaging Format (WIM) file for read and write access in Windows Vista. Then, you try to delete this file by using Microsoft Windows Explorer. However, you cannot delete this file, and you receive the following error message:
Cannot delete filename: Access is denied. Make sure the disk is not full or write-protected and that the file is currently not in use.
Note When this problem occurs, you can still mount or modify a WIM file by using the Ximage.exe tool.

CAUSE

This problem occurs because you cannot use the standard user interface in Microsoft Windows Explorer to move or delete files that you create by using the Ximage.exe tool.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem and delete a mounted WIM file, click to select the file in Windows Explorer, and then press SHIFT+DELETE.

Note Alternatively, you can delete this file by using a command-line command.

APPLIES TO
  • Windows Vista Business
  • Windows Vista Enterprise
  • Windows Vista Home Basic
  • Windows Vista Home Premium
  • Windows Vista Ultimate
  • Windows Vista Enterprise 64-bit Edition
  • Windows Vista Home Basic 64-bit Edition
  • Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit Edition
  • Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit Edition
  • Windows Vista Business 64-bit Edition
Keywords: 
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