Fix- Error 0x80070091: The Directory Is Not Empty

The Error 0x80070091: The directory is not empty usually occurs in Windows when you try to delete a folder or move a directory, and Windows fails because it thinks the folder still contains files—even if it looks empty. This can happen due to:

• Hidden or system files

• File/folder permissions issues

• Corrupted folders or disk errors

• Interference from running programs or services

Here’s a step-by-step guide to fix it safely:

Method 1: Restart and Try Again

Sometimes the simplest solution works:

1. Close all programs that might be using the folder.

2. Restart your PC.

3. Try deleting or moving the folder again.

Method 2: Delete via Command Prompt

Using Command Prompt often bypasses the GUI errors.

1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.

2. Type the following command and press Enter:

   rd /s /q "C:\Path\To\Your\Folder"


   • Replace C:\Path\To\Your\Folder with the exact folder path.

   • /s removes all files and subfolders.

   • /q runs quietly without asking for confirmation.

3. Check if the folder is deleted.

Method 3: Use Safe Mode

Sometimes running Windows in Safe Mode helps, as fewer processes are running.

1. Press Windows + I → Update & Security → Recovery → Advanced Startup → Restart now.

2. After restart, choose Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Startup Settings → Restart.

3. Press F4 to boot into Safe Mode.

4. Try deleting the folder again.

Method 4: Check Disk for Errors

Corrupted files or bad sectors can cause this error.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.

2. Type:

   chkdsk C: /f /r


   • Replace C: with the drive letter containing the folder.

   • /f fixes errors on the disk.

   • /r locates bad sectors and recovers readable information.

3. Press Y to schedule it for next restart if prompted.

4. Restart your PC and let Windows scan and fix errors.

Method 5: Use Windows PowerShell

PowerShell can also delete stubborn folders:

1. Press Windows + X → Windows Terminal (Admin).

2. Run the command:

   Remove-Item -LiteralPath "C:\Path\To\Your\Folder" -Force -Recurse


3. Replace the path with your folder location

Method 6: Take Ownership

If it’s a permissions issue, take ownership of the folder:

1. Right-click the folder → Properties → Security → Advanced.

2. Click Change next to Owner.

3. Enter your username → Check Names → OK → Apply.

4. Ensure your account has Full Control, then try deleting again.

Extra Tips

• Ensure no programs (like OneDrive, antivirus, or backup tools) are using the folder.

• Rename the folder before deleting — sometimes Windows allows deletion after a rename.

• If deleting via GUI, hold Shift + Delete to permanently delete without Recycle Bin.