If the CD or DVD you’re attempting to delete the file from is not a CD-RW or DVD-RW disc, you cannot delete or modify it. Standard CD-ROM and DVD drives and CDs and DVDs are read-only, which means you can only read the contents of the discs and not modify them in any way.

However, if you have a CD-RW or DVD-RW disc, you can either erase and re-write the disc, or delete individual files.

By default, Microsoft Windows and other major operating systems only support the deletion of the entire disc and not individual files. However, if a third-party software utility, such as DirectCD, Nero, or other packet writing software is installed, you can delete individual files.

  • See the CD-RW and DVD-RW definitions for further information and related links.
  • CD-ROM help and support.