Delete Confirmation Dialog Missing | What to Do

By Michael | Last Updated April 25, 2025

Generally, the delete confirmation dialog is set to disabled, which makes it easy to moved junk files to the recycle bin. If you prefer an extra layer of confirmation to prevent accidental deletions, you can re-enable this feature using the methods below.

Method 1: Enable via Recycle Bin Properties

Step 1: Right-click Recycle Bin on the desktop, and choose Properties in the menu.

choose Properties

Step 2: In the Recycle Bin Properties window, check the box labeled Display delete confirmation dialog. Then tap OK to have the setting enabled.

enter display delete confirmation dialog

Note:

If you have multiple drives, ensure you configure this setting for each one individually.

Method 2: Enable via Group Policy Editor

This method can be used on Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education computer.

Step 1: Access the Local Group Policy Editor.

Step 2: Expand User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components. Then click File Explorer option.

Step 3: Double-click the option—Display confirmation dialog when deleting files on the right pane.

Access file explorer

Step 4: Check Enabled option and hit the Apply and OK button to save the change. This policy setting ensures that users are prompted for confirmation before deleting files.

select Enabled

FAQs on Delete Confirmation Dialog in Windows 10

Q1: Why is the delete confirmation dialog missing in Windows 10?

Starting with Windows 8, Microsoft disabled the delete confirmation dialog by default to streamline the deletion process. However, users can re-enable it through Recycle Bin Properties, Group Policy Editor, or the Registry Editor.

Q2: Does enabling the delete confirmation dialog affect all users on the computer?

Changes made via the Recycle Bin Properties affect only the current user. To apply the setting for all users, use the Group Policy Editor or modify the registry accordingly.

Q3: Will enabling the delete confirmation dialog prevent permanent deletions?

The confirmation dialog prompts before moving files to the Recycle Bin. It does not affect permanent deletions (e.g., using Shift + Delete), which bypass the Recycle Bin.

Conclusions

By following these methods, you can restore the delete confirmation dialog in Windows 10, adding an extra layer of security against unintended file deletions.

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