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Using the Windows 7 and Windows 10 operating systems enables the user to perform complex tasks, work with files, and create content. Nevertheless, users often witness certain errors. Error 0x80070091 is considered a common error; it appears when you try to delete files on the external HDD or system drive of your computer. When you try to delete, you receive a notification that an unexpected error has occurred. The message also indicates that the folder is not empty and gives an error code of the form 0x80070091. We will understand why the system does not delete the folder 0x80070091 and how you can fix this error.

Causes of error 0x80070091 in Windows 7, 10

There is no definite reason why this error appears when deleting a particular folder. This may indicate that the system files are damaged, that there are viruses in the operating system, or third-party software is blocking access to the file system. Despite the seriousness and number of possible reasons, the problem is being solved, users can do it on their own without resorting to the services of service centers. There are several ways to remove the folder and solve the problem you are experiencing.

How to delete a folder on error 0x80070091?

If it was not possible to delete the 0x80070091 folder and the error appears constantly, then you should initially take simple steps to resolve it. First of all, it makes sense to try renaming the folder and rebooting the system. Often, after these steps, the problem is resolved. This solution is relevant if the breakdown occurs only with one specific folder. If the problem is widespread throughout the system, then a more serious approach is needed. You should go to the ways to solve the problem below.

Method 1: run a system check for errors

In a large number of cases, such an error appears precisely because errors occur in the file system. Fortunately, the Windows operating system has built-in functionality for running a system check for errors. This tool allows you to check the system for errors and, if there are any, then fix the problems automatically. The solution is quite simple, so it is recommended to start with it. To check the system for errors, you must perform the following steps:

1. Run Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Enter command sfc / scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the complete system check to complete.

The process can be quite lengthy, it all depends on the performance of the PC and the state of the operating system with files. After the check is completed, you need to restart Windows and try to delete the folder that previously generated the error. If the removal was successful and without additional problems, then you can simply operate the system. If the error reappears, then you need to go to the next step to solve.

Method 2: scan the disk via chkdsk

Windows has another built-in tool for checking files and recovering them. This is a more serious function that is triggered at the next reboot and checks all files for damage. If you run the correct command, the tool will not only find the problem itself, but fix it. In most cases, it is the check through chkdsk that gives a positive result. This check solves many system problems, it is often run when there are brakes or errors during operation. To perform a chkdsk scan, you need to do the following:

1. Go to the command line with administrator rights.
2. Enter command chkdsk / f / r C: (where the letter FROM: this is the drive you want to check. Check first what letter the portable drive got if the problem arose on it).
3. If a message appears stating that the scan cannot be performed on this volume, press “Y” to disable it and start the scan.
4. After the check starts, you need to wait for it to finish and boot the system, if the system disk is checked.

This check can be quite time-consuming for a large disk with many files. But at the same time, the tool will allow you to find problems, restore them and create a report where you can study everything if you wish. If this did not help in the solution and the error continues to appear when you try to delete the folder, then you should go to the next method.

Method 3: remove viruses

Often, it is viruses in the operating system that cause such problems. Third-party software simply interferes with the operation of the system, takes away the user’s rights to delete or edit files. It is possible that the folder that cannot be deleted is infected. The virus could enter the system in different ways, it is necessary to solve the problem based on what is already there. The simplest solution would be to scan Windows for viruses. Windows 10 has built-in antivirus software that performs very well. You need to go to “Windows Defender”, and then select there the item “Check the entire system for viruses”.

It should be remembered that the anti-virus databases must not be outdated; the defender must be official and supported by the developer. After the program finds viruses, they must be removed. If this cannot be done now, the program will offer to uninstall immediately after reboot. Upon completion of the check, it is imperative to restart the computer and try to delete the folder that previously did not succumb to this action.

Method 4: use Windows clean boot

The problem may also be hidden in third-party drivers and programs that the user installed earlier on his own. Before you delete everything and try to solve the problem in this way, you need to understand whether it really is in this. In order to run the diagnostics, you first need to clean boot Windows. After such a download, all third-party software will be disabled in the system, including previously installed programs and drivers. If after such a download the error 0x80070091 no longer appears, then this already indicates that the problem has been found. To perform a clean boot, follow these steps:

1. Start the “Run” command window by holding down the Win + R keys.
2. Enter the command in the window msconfig to enter system settings.
3. Go to the “Services” tab and select “Hide all Microsoft services” there, and then check the box next to “Disable all”.
4. Follow the “Start” section, then click on “Open Task Manager”.
5. Select each launcher item in turn and disable it.
6. Click “OK” and agree to the request to reboot the system.

Running a clean OS is possible in Windows 7, 8, 10, after rebooting, you can try to remove the folder. If a positive result appears, then you need to look for software that interferes with the standard startup of the operating system.

As you can see, it is possible to solve the problem on your own. If error 0x80070091 occurs and you cannot delete the folder, then you just need to try the above methods. Even a beginner who has never gone deep into the system settings of his OS can cope with this task.