JSI Tip 4014. You can't rename a system file in Windows 2000 Explorer?

Jerold Schulman

August 22, 2001

1 Min Read
ITPro Today logo in a gray background | ITPro Today

When you try to rename a system file in Windows 2000 Explorer, you receive an error indicating that the file is being used by windows?

Example: When you attempt to rename Kernel32.dll, you receive:

Cannot rename Kernel32.dll: The specified file is being used by Windows.

To work around this behavior:

1. open a CMD prompt. 

2. Switch (CD) to the folder that contains the file you wish to rename.

3. Use the REN command:

    REN kernel32.dll kernel32.old



Sign up for the ITPro Today newsletter
Stay on top of the IT universe with commentary, news analysis, how-to's, and tips delivered to your inbox daily.

You May Also Like