Advanced File Deletion & System Integrity Tool
This Reddit post (1l1z5yl) really highlights the niche and SaaS opportunity we've identified. The user's struggle to delete a corrupted file named DOOM
—even after trying regular delete, shift-delete, safe mode, and the command prompt del /f
(and even as an administrator, as suggested by the comments)—ultimately led them to format their entire D: drive. This perfectly captures the target user for a specialized file deletion utility.
- Niche Market Confirmed: Users facing extremely stubborn or corrupted files that resist standard and even command-line OS deletion methods, leading to significant frustration and drastic measures like data loss via drive formatting. This includes users who have tried some advanced steps but still failed.
- SaaS Opportunity: An advanced file deletion utility designed to overcome the limitations of built-in OS tools. It would systematically apply multiple aggressive techniques to remove such files.
- Product Form: A downloadable desktop application (initially for Windows, given the
D:\
path, with potential for macOS later) with a clear, user-friendly interface. Key features would include:- Aggressive File Unlocker: Identifies and terminates processes or handles locking the target file.
- Deep Permission Escalation: Automates taking ownership and modifying Access Control Lists (ACLs) that prevent deletion.
- Boot-Time Deletion: Schedules the file for deletion during the next system reboot, bypassing OS locks active during normal operation.
- Corrupted File System Strategies: Attempts deletion even when minor file system inconsistencies block standard tools (with appropriate warnings about potential risks).
- Diagnostic Feedback: Informs the user about the detected issue (e.g., "file locked by process X," "permission denied") and the steps taken.
- Expected Revenue:
- Tiered Pricing Model:
- A Basic/Free version might offer simple lock identification and standard force delete attempts.
- A Pro Version (e.g., $19.99 - $49.99 one-time purchase, or a $3-$7/month subscription for ongoing updates and advanced features) would include boot-time deletion, comprehensive permission fixes, and strategies for corrupted files.
- Market Potential: The problem of undeletable files is common. A tool that reliably solves this where others fail (including
del /f
) has a strong value proposition. If marketed effectively (SEO for "can't delete file," "force delete utility," etc.) and proven effective, it could attract a significant user base, potentially generating $50,000 - $500,000+ annually as it becomes a recognized solution for both frustrated home users and IT professionals.
- Tiered Pricing Model:
Origin Reddit Post
r/techsupport
Command prompt force delete not working?
Posted by u/Organic_Badger_7604•06/03/2025
Im trying to delete a corrupted file, but i can't do it with the regular delete. I tried shift-deleting and even tried safe mode, but nothing worked. I tried command prompt del /f D:\DOOM and
Top Comments
u/Organic_Badger_7604
I just used format to wipe my hard drive. It deleted the files and luckily the only other thing on it was warthunder. Who knew DOOM ETERNAL could corrupt a hard drive lol
u/Organic_Badger_7604
Didn't work
u/DumpoTheClown
I'm guessing your account doesn't have permission. Try it as administrator.
u/lazybuzzards
Have you tried rebooting then administrator delete. My thinking is maybe a program has it open, which generally will prevent delete even for administrator. If that does not work, try powershe