Support article
Cannot delete an FTP folder
Find out why you cannot remove a directory by FTP and how to fix it by checking hidden files, permissions and the connection state.
Introduction
If an FTP client will not let you delete a folder, the cause is usually simple: the directory is not empty, there are hidden files inside it, or the account does not have enough permissions.
Steps to delete a folder through FTP
- Refresh the directory listing.
- Check whether the folder still contains visible files.
- Enable hidden file display if your client supports it.
- Delete the files inside the folder first.
- Try deleting the folder again.
Why does the client say the folder is not empty?
Because there may be hidden files, cache files or system-generated files still inside the directory.
What does Permission denied mean?
It usually means your FTP account cannot modify that directory or the folder permissions need review.
Can you remove it from cPanel or DirectAdmin?
Yes. In some cases the file manager in the control panel is the easiest way to confirm what is inside the folder and remove it safely.
Conclusion
Most FTP folder deletion errors are caused by hidden contents or insufficient permissions. Review both before assuming there is a server problem.