Win11 Delete key stops working for file deletion after renaming a file

Since Delete still works in other applications, the keyboard is probably fine. This sounds like File Explorer sometimes keeps the keyboard focus in the rename field even after you press Enter.

When it happens, try this first:

1. Press Esc once after confirming the new name.
2. Click the file once or move the selection with an arrow key.
3. Press Delete again.

You can also right-click the file and select Delete, or use the trash icon on the File Explorer toolbar. If those methods work, it confirms that the problem is with keyboard focus rather than file permissions.

To restart File Explorer without restarting the computer:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Find Windows Explorer in Task Manager.
3. Right-click it and select Restart.

Also test the same steps with a file in a normal local folder such as Documents. If it happens only inside OneDrive, a network folder or another synchronized location, wait for the rename to finish syncing before deleting the file.