How to Fix Can’t Delete SCRCPY Folder
SCRCPY is a popular free tool for mirroring and controlling Android devices. However, sometimes users get issues when trying to delete the SCRCPY folder due to permission errors or files being in use. This is a common issue that occurs after using SCRCPY on Windows that prevents the folder from being deleted. Thankfully, it's also a really, really easy fix, so follow along as we guide you through the process.
How SCRCPY Works with adb.exe
SCRCPY relies on ADB (Android Debug Bridge) to communicate with your Android device. When you launch SCRCPY, it automatically starts adb.exe, which detects connected devices and establishes a connection. Once connected, SCRCPY pushes a small server application (scrcpy-server.jar) to the Android device. This server runs in the background, capturing the screen and streaming it to your computer over USB or Wi-Fi.
Beyond screen mirroring, SCRCPY also enables full device control. Your mouse and keyboard inputs are translated into ADB commands that simulate touch gestures and text input on the Android device. Since SCRCPY depends on adb.exe, the ADB process may remain running in the background even after you close SCRCPY. This can prevent Windows from deleting the SCRCPY folder because adb.exe is still in use.
How to Fix Can’t Delete SCRCPY Folder
Now that you understand how SCRCPY and adb.exe work, you can delete or move the folder from your computer.
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First, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
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Here find adb.exe in the list of processes. (sort by name to bring it to the top)
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Right-click it and select End Task. (Or select it and press delete)
Once you have closed adb.exe, you'll be able to delete, move and change the SCRCPY folder on your device. Alternatively, you could also just restart your computer and get the same effect but that's honestly more messing around.
Boot into Safe Mode and Delete
If you still can't remove the folder after following the steps above, you can try the following. However, in all my years using SCRCPY I've never had to resort to this. So if you do have this problem it could be because you got SCRCPY from a dodgy source and not the official source.
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Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
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Go to the Boot tab and check Safe boot (Minimal).
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Click Apply and OK, then restart your PC.
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Once in Safe Mode, delete the SCRCPY folder.
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Restart normally by unchecking Safe boot in msconfig.
How to Use Custom Commands in SCRCPY
If you're completely new to SCRCPY I highly suggest that you check out all of our other guides here as they will teach you tons and tons of stuff about SCRCPY and how to get the absolute best experience possible while using it.