In this guide, we will walk you through multiple solutions to fix the “This action can’t be completed because the file is open in Shell Infrastructure Host” error and regain control over your files.
Are you trying to delete a video file but keep seeing the error message: “This action can’t be completed because the file is open in Shell Infrastructure Host”? This issue commonly occurs when attempting to delete a recently recorded video from File Explorer.
The root cause of this error is often a bug introduced by a recent Windows update, which affects how the default Media Player interacts with video files. The issue prevents users from deleting the file, leaving it stuck in their system. Fortunately, there are several ways to resolve this problem quickly and efficiently.
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How to Fix “This Action Can’t Be Completed Because the File Is Open in Shell Infrastructure Host”
The error is typically related to Windows Media Player locking the file, preventing it from being deleted. Here are two effective methods to resolve this issue:
Fix 1: Change Your Default Video Player
One of the simplest fixes is to change your default video player. Since the issue is linked to the default Media Player, switching to another program can often resolve the problem.
Steps to Change the Default Video Player:
- Locate the file – Navigate to the video or photo you want to delete.
- Right-click the file – Select “Properties” from the dropdown menu.
- Change the default app – Click “Change” next to Open with.
- Select a new media player – Choose a different program, such as Photos or VLC Media Player.
- Apply changes – Click “OK” and try deleting the file again.
This method ensures that Windows Media Player no longer locks the file, allowing you to remove it without issues.
Fix 2: Update Windows to the Latest Version
Microsoft frequently releases updates to fix known bugs, including this one. Updating Windows to the latest version may resolve the problem.
Steps to Update Windows:
- Open Windows Search – Click on the Search bar in the taskbar.
- Search for updates – Type “Check for updates” and click on the result.
- Check for available updates – Click on Check for updates.
- Install the update – If an update is available, select Download & Install.
- Restart your computer – Once the update is installed, restart your PC and check if the issue persists.
Updating Windows ensures that any bugs causing the error are patched, potentially resolving the problem permanently.
The “This action can’t be completed because the file is open in Shell Infrastructure Host” error is often caused by a Windows bug affecting Media Player. The simplest way to fix it is by changing the default video player or updating Windows to the latest version.
If the issue persists, consider restarting your PC or using a third-party file unlocker tool to force-delete the file. Following these steps should help you remove the problematic video file and prevent future occurrences of this error.
By keeping your Windows system updated and adjusting your default media player, you can ensure a smoother experience when managing your files. If you found this guide helpful, be sure to share it with others who might be facing the same issue!
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