Why is my CPU usage high during deletion?
Speed Delete is multi-threaded. It uses your CPU fully to delete as fast as your hardware allows. This is normal and indicates maximum throughput.
Is my SSD wearing out?
Fast Delete: No extra wear.
Forensic Removal: Writes more data by design. Use only when security matters.
I'm getting "Access Denied" or "File in Use"
Windows locks files opened by other programs. Close the program using the file and try again. You can also try running Speed Delete as Administrator.
Can I recover deleted files?
Fast Delete: Possibly, with recovery software (until disk space is overwritten).
Forensic Removal: No. The data is destroyed beyond recovery.
Can I use my license on multiple computers?
Yes, your license works on 2 devices. Need more or a transfer? Contact support.
What if I see "Transfer Required"?
This appears after hardware changes or Windows reinstalls. Click Transfer in the app or contact support for a reset.
Why is SpeedDelete faster than Windows Explorer?
SpeedDelete uses direct filesystem calls and bypasses all Explorer overhead including Recycle Bin indexing, shell extensions, and UI delays. This results in deletions that are typically 10x faster or more.
Is it safe to use?
Yes! SpeedDelete is a portable, zero-footprint utility with no installer or background services. It only deletes what you explicitly tell it to delete. The Forensic Removal mode ensures data cannot be recovered.
🛡️ Why does Windows SmartScreen say "Unknown publisher"?
When you first run SpeedDelete.exe, Windows may show a blue "Windows protected your PC" dialog. This is normal and safe for small, indie apps that are not yet widely distributed or code-signed by a well-known publisher.
Don't be afraid. Speed Delete is a legitimate file deletion utility. SmartScreen is just being cautious because the app is new or not signed by a major certificate authority.
What to do:
- If you only see "Don't run", click More info.
- Then click Run anyway to launch Speed Delete.
Step 1: Click "More info" to reveal the Run option.
Step 2: Click "Run anyway". Speed Delete is safe to run.
Once you run it, Windows may remember your choice. Speed Delete does not collect personal data, install background services, or do anything you don't explicitly request.
🔐 Why does McAfee show a warning?
McAfee may flag Speed Delete due to its ability to delete files quickly. This is a known false positive for system utilities that perform fast, low-level file operations.
All major antivirus engines report Speed Delete as clean:
- Microsoft Defender: Clean
- Google Safe Browsing: Clean
- Bitdefender, ESET, Avast, CrowdStrike, Kaspersky: Clean
- VirusTotal: 1/69 detection (heuristic only from McAfee)
Why this happens: Some antivirus products use machine learning heuristics that flag programs which delete files quickly, operate without an installer (portable apps), or are newly released. Speed Delete fits this profile, which can trigger overly cautious warnings.
Your safety: Speed Delete does not collect personal data, install background services, run at startup, or perform any actions you don't explicitly request. If you use McAfee and see a warning, you may safely allow or whitelist Speed Delete.
Do I need admin rights?
No admin rights needed for files you own. Only files requiring elevated permissions will prompt for admin access.
Does it work on external drives?
Yes! SpeedDelete works on any storage: internal SSD/HDD, external USB drives, and network drives. Performance depends on the drive speed.
What makes the PRO version worth it?
PRO unlocks multi-file/folder selection, unlimited Forensic Removal, full deletion history with search/export, and smart queue consolidation. For power users who delete frequently, it saves hours.
What Speed Delete Cannot Do
- Bypass Windows permissions
- Delete files you don't have rights to
- Override corporate security policies
- Unlock files actively in use
Speed Delete is powerful, not reckless.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Check out our complete user guide or contact our support team.