How do I fix: 🔍 Why This Happens?

The main reason for this error is that hidden files or subdirectories are preventing the directory from being fully deleted. This can occur when files with names starting with a dot (.) are present in the directory.An alternative cause could be permission issues, where the user account running Cobia

How do I fix: Resolving permission issue?

Step 1: Check the user account running Cobian Backup and ensure that its permissions allow for deletion of files and directories on the FTP server.Step 2: If necessary, adjust the user account's permissions to grant read, write, and delete access to the directory. Consult your NAS DLINK DNS323 devic

Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-19

How to Fix: Cobian/Filezilla - FTP - Can't remove directory: Directory not empty (dot[filename] error)

Q: How do I fix: 🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps Resolving hidden file issue?

Step 1: Open FileZilla and navigate to the FTP server. In the File Manager window, right-click on the folder that is causing the error and select 'View' > 'Show Hidden Files'. This will reveal any hidden files or subdirectories.Step 2: Locate the files with names starting with a dot (.) and delete t

Cobian Backup error: Can't remove directory: Directory not empty, dot files causing issue.

Quick Answer: Check for hidden files starting with dot (.) and delete them manually to resolve the issue.

📋 Table of Contents

🔍 Why This Happens
🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps
🎯 Final Words

The error 'Can't remove directory: Directory not empty' occurs when attempting to delete an FTP directory that contains hidden files or subdirectories, causing Cobian Backup and FileZilla to fail. This issue affects users who rely on automatic backup systems for their NAS DLINK DNS323 device.

This problem can be frustrating as it prevents the automatic deletion of old backups, forcing users to manually intervene. However, with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve this issue and ensure your backup system functions smoothly.

🔍 Why This Happens

The main reason for this error is that hidden files or subdirectories are preventing the directory from being fully deleted. This can occur when files with names starting with a dot (.) are present in the directory.
An alternative cause could be permission issues, where the user account running Cobian Backup does not have sufficient permissions to delete the directory.

🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps

Resolving hidden file issue

Step 1: Open FileZilla and navigate to the FTP server. In the File Manager window, right-click on the folder that is causing the error and select 'View' > 'Show Hidden Files'. This will reveal any hidden files or subdirectories.
Step 2: Locate the files with names starting with a dot (.) and delete them manually using FileZilla's built-in file manager. Be careful not to delete any important files!
Step 3: Once all hidden files are removed, try deleting the directory again using Cobian Backup to verify that it can successfully remove the empty directory.

Resolving permission issue

Step 1: Check the user account running Cobian Backup and ensure that its permissions allow for deletion of files and directories on the FTP server.
Step 2: If necessary, adjust the user account's permissions to grant read, write, and delete access to the directory. Consult your NAS DLINK DNS323 device's documentation or contact support for assistance with modifying permissions.

🎯 Final Words

To resolve the 'Can't remove directory: Directory not empty' error in Cobian Backup and FileZilla, first identify and manually remove any hidden files or subdirectories using FileZilla. If permission is an issue, adjust the user account's permissions to grant necessary access. By following these steps, you can ensure your backup system functions automatically and efficiently.

Did this fix your problem?

If not, try searching for specific error codes.

🔍 Search Error Database

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🛠️ Related Fixes

How to Fix: Pc crashes shortly after launching game (rainbow

Fix Pc crashes shortly after launching game (rainbow six siege). Compl

How to Fix: Installing an APK on a locked down phone

Installing an APK on a locked down phone: Try using a rooted device, e

How to Fix: New PC build- no signal and no clue

Fix New PC build- no signal and no clue. Complete troubleshooting guid