Git unlink of file failed - Unlink of file Failed. Should I try again?
Something wrong is going on with one of the files in my local git repository. When I'm trying to change the branch it says:
Unlink of file 'templates/media/container.html' failed. Should I try again? (y/n)What does it mean?
Getting message of git unlink of file failed means that another program is using the same file, which is preventing git from "moving" the file into or out of the working directory when you are attempting to change branches.
In this sort of scenario, try closing the file in any applications that might have used it. If that does not work, completely exit any applications which may have opened the file
Answer (1)
If you’re seeing the error “Unlink of file failed” in Git, it means Git is trying to remove or modify a file, but something is preventing it. This is usually due to file permissions, background processes, or antivirus software locking the file.
Should You Try Again?
Yes, but first, check for the possible causes and apply the right fix before retrying.
Common Causes and Fixes
1. File in Use by Another Program
- If the file is open in an editor (like VS Code, Notepad++, or Excel), close it and try again.
- On Windows, some background processes may lock files. Use Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) to check and close them.
2. Insufficient Permissions
Try running the command with elevated permissions:
sudo git checkout -- file-name # On macOS/Linux git checkout -- file-name # Run Git Bash as administrator on Windows3. Antivirus or Security Software Blocking Git
- Some security tools prevent file modifications. Temporarily disable antivirus and try again.
4. Remove Write Protection
Manually change file permissions:
chmod +w file-name # On macOS/Linux attrib -r file-name # On WindowsForce Git to Reset the File
If nothing works, try:
git reset --hard
git clean -fd Warning: This will discard uncommitted changes!