If you use Windows XP, Vista or 7 then you will be familiar with the following error message: ‘the action can’t be completed becuase the file is open in windows explorer’. This error is generally experienced when trying to delete or rename a folder or file which has recently been opened or browsed. The problem is due to how windows displays file icons, or thumbnail pictures. You can stop these errors from occuring and speed up file/folder browsing in windows explorer by following these simple steps.

Step 1. Click Organise, Folder and Search options.

Step 2. Click the ‘View’ tab

Step 3. Tick  ‘Always show Icons, Never thumbnails’

Thats it, job done.