Deleting a file in Windows 11 takes a single key press. By default the file goes to the Recycle Bin, so you can get it back if you change your mind. You can also delete permanently, skipping the Recycle Bin.
Quick Answer
Select the file in File Explorer and press the Delete key, or click the trash can Delete button in the command bar. Press Shift+Delete to remove it permanently.
How to Delete a File in Windows 11
- Open File Explorer (Windows key + E).
- Go to the folder that contains the file.
- Click the file to select it. Hold Ctrl to select several files.
- Press the Delete key, or click the trash can Delete button in the command bar. You can also right-click the file and choose the trash can icon.
- The file moves to the Recycle Bin.
- To delete permanently, select it and press Shift+Delete, then click Yes.
Ways to Delete
| Method | Result |
|---|---|
| Delete key or trash can button | Moves to the Recycle Bin |
| Drag to the Recycle Bin | Moves to the Recycle Bin |
| Shift+Delete | Deletes permanently after a confirmation |
| Empty Recycle Bin | Permanently removes everything in it |
| Delete on a network or USB drive | Often deleted permanently, with no Recycle Bin copy |
See also finding recently deleted files.
Troubleshooting
- File in use: close the app that has it open, then try again. Restarting the PC also works.
- Access denied: you may need administrator rights, or the file belongs to Windows and should not be deleted.
- Deleted by mistake: open the Recycle Bin, right-click the file and choose Restore. See how to find recently deleted files and how to restore deleted files.
- Freeing space: files in the Recycle Bin still use space until it is emptied. Related: ways to free up storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do deleted files go?
To the Recycle Bin on your desktop, unless you used Shift+Delete or the file was too large for the bin.
Can I get back a Shift+Delete file?
Not from the Recycle Bin. A backup or File History copy may help; recovery software sometimes works but is not guaranteed.
How do I stop the delete confirmation?
Right-click the Recycle Bin, choose Properties and change Display delete confirmation dialog.
Can I delete a folder the same way?
Yes. Deleting a folder also deletes everything inside it.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Select the file.
- Press Delete or click the trash can.
- Use Shift+Delete to skip the Recycle Bin.
- Restore from the Recycle Bin if needed.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.