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How to Delete Read Only Files: Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to Delete Read Only Files with clear steps, useful examples, and practical tips. Complete the task correctly and avoid common mistakes.

Table of Contents

This updated guide explains how to Delete Read Only Files through clear steps, practical examples, and important checks that help prevent common errors.

Method 1 of 4:

Use the Properties Menu to Eliminate the Read Only Attribute

  1. Delete Read Only Files — Use the Properties Menu to Eliminate the Read Only Attribute screenshot 1
    Right-click the file in Windows Explorer.
  2. Delete Read Only Files — Use the Properties Menu to Eliminate the Read Only Attribute screenshot 2
    Choose "Properties" from the drop-down menu.
  3. Delete Read Only Files — Use the Properties Menu to Eliminate the Read Only Attribute screenshot 3
    Uncheck the box next to the "Read Only" option in the "Properties" menu.
    • If the box is checked and grayed out, either the file is in use or you don't have permission to change it.
    • Quit any programs that are using the file. If needed, login as an administrator to gain permission to alter the file.
  4. Delete Read Only Files — Use the Properties Menu to Eliminate the Read Only Attribute screenshot 4
    Delete the file.
Method 2 of 4:

Use the Attrib Command to Turn Off the Read Only Attribute

  1. Delete Read Only Files — Use the Attrib Command to Turn Off the Read Only Attribute screenshot 5
    Click Start and select Run. If you don't see the Run command, then click All Programs > Accessories > Run.
  2. Delete Read Only Files — Use the Attrib Command to Turn Off the Read Only Attribute screenshot 6
    Remove the Read Only attribute and set the System attribute. Type the following command:
    • attrib -r +s drive:
    • For the test folder, for example, type attrib -r +s c:test
  3. Delete Read Only Files — Use the Attrib Command to Turn Off the Read Only Attribute screenshot 7
    Delete the file.
Method 3 of 4:

Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Finder

  1. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Finder screenshot 8
    Open Finder. Find the file that you may need to delete and click to highlight it.
  2. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Finder screenshot 9
    Click File at the top of the Finder menu, then select Get Info.
  3. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Finder screenshot 10
    Select the "Privilege" option in the Sharing & Permissions section.
  4. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Finder screenshot 11
    click the box next to "Owner. "
  5. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Finder screenshot 12
    Set the file to Read & Write status.
  6. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Finder screenshot 13
    Delete the file
Method 4 of 4:

Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Terminal

  1. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Terminal screenshot 14
    Select Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
  2. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Terminal screenshot 15
    Type cd . For example, if you may need to adjust permissions for a file in your documents folder, then type cd Documents .
  3. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Terminal screenshot 16
    Input the command ls -l to view the directory contents in long form. Permissions are displayed on the far left column.
  4. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Terminal screenshot 17
    Type chmod u+rwx "filename" to grant read, write and execute permissions. Close Terminal.
  5. Delete Read Only Files — Delete Read Only Files in Mac OS X Using Terminal screenshot 18
    Find and delete the file.

FAQ

What is the easiest way to Delete Read Only Files?

Start with the requirements in this guide, then follow each step in order. Check the result after every major change so problems are easier to identify.

Can beginners follow these instructions?

Yes. The process is organized into practical steps, and you can repeat any step before moving forward.

What should I check if the method does not work?

Confirm your software or device version, permissions, settings, file format, and internet connection when the task depends on online services.

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