How to Delete a Locked DLL
Windows allows you to delete files that you no longer need as long as you or the system is not using them. Deleting files in use is usually as simple as closing the application connected to these files prior to deletion. However, you cannot delete certain DLL files that are loaded into memory, and it is not obvious to tell what application is using a particular DLL file. Delete these locked DLL files by using other free Windows utilities. Use these utilities to delete DLL files linked to viruses or completely uninstalling certain programs.
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Instructions
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Use Unlocker to unlock the DLL file so you can safely delete it afterwards. Unlocker lets you end any processes associated with the DLL file from a right-click menu to allow direct deletion.
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Use GiPo@MoveOnBoot to schedule a DLL file for deletion the next time you boot your computer to make sure the software deletes the file before it loads. The GiPo@MoveOnBoot utility is included in the GiPo@FileUtilities set which lets you perform advanced system operations, such as drive mounting and read error checking.
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Use Process Explorer to identify what executables connect to locked DLL files. It provides a feature that lets you enter the filename of the locked DLL so you can see the running application that relies on it. Process Explorer lets you end that process to unlock the DLL file, allowing deletion.
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Tips & Warnings
When deleting an unlocked DLL file, drag the file to the Recycle Bin on your desktop to avoid any risks of broken application functionality. Applications rely on DLL files to function properly and deleting the wrong one may trigger problems. Placing unlocked DLL files in the Recycle Bin let you recover the DLL in case you delete the wrong one by mistake.
