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0x80070091SystemLow

Error 0x80070091 — Directory Not Empty (ERROR_DIR_NOT_EMPTY) | Windows System Error Fix

Windows 11Windows 10Windows Server 2022

What Does 0x80070091 Mean?

The directory is not empty and cannot be removed.

Real-World Causes

  1. 1Attempting to delete a folder that still contains files or subfolders
  2. 2Hidden or system files inside the folder prevent deletion
  3. 3Another process has files open in the directory
  4. 4File permissions prevent listing all contents

Symptoms

  • ⚠Cannot delete a folder that appears empty
  • ⚠Folder removal fails during cleanup operations
  • ⚠Uninstall programs fail to remove application directories
  • ⚠Windows Update cleanup fails

DIY Fix

Beginner-friendly steps you can try at home

  1. 1Show hidden files in File Explorer: View > Show > Hidden Items
  2. 2Close all programs that might have files open in the folder
  3. 3Use 'rd /s /q foldername' from elevated Command Prompt
  4. 4Delete the contents first, then the folder

Advanced Fix

For experienced users and IT professionals

  1. 1Use Unlocker or Process Explorer to find and close handles to files in the directory
  2. 2Boot into Safe Mode to delete stubborn folders

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the folder look empty but won't delete?
Hidden files, system files, or files with restricted permissions can exist in a folder without being visible. Enable 'Show hidden files' and 'Show protected operating system files' in File Explorer to see everything.

Related Error Codes

0x80070020Sharing Violation (ERROR_SHARING_VIOLATION)0x80070010Current Directory Error (ERROR_CURRENT_DIRECTORY)

About the Author

Windows Troubleshooting Team

Verified against official Microsoft documentation and real-world diagnostic data. Error behavior confirmed across Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server.