How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

This practical guide walks through how to fix 'file is open in another program' error on, explains the main requirements, and highlights common issues that may appear along the way.

I. Some quick fixes

1. Using Windows Shadowcopy

If you are trying to copy a file that is being used by another process. Please enter the command to do that.

Step 1: Find 'cmd' using the search bar and open Command Prompt with administrator rights (Run As Administrator).

1. Using Windows Shadowcopy � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

Step 2: View the file path. To be able to copy and paste files with script, you need to know the exact location of the file on the drive.

Right-click the file you want to copy and select Properties�

1. Using Windows Shadowcopy � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

Switch to the Location tab and you'll know how to write the location of the file. Example in my case: C:Usertran1Musictraicay.mp3

1. Using Windows Shadowcopy � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

Step 3: You enter the following command to copy and paste files from one folder to another.

esentutl /y source file path /vss /d destination file path

Please replace 'file path' with the correct path, for example:

esentutl /y C:Userstran1Musictraicay.mp3 /vss /d D:traicay.mp3

1. Using Windows Shadowcopy � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

With that, I was able to copy the file traicay.mp3 from drive C to drive D.

2. Close the program

In Windows 10, when you receive the message 'file is open in another program', determine which program it is. Then just close that program and you can use the file freely.

For example, in the image below: The file tracay.docx is open in Words so I cannot copy, or delete the file.

2. Close the program � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

To turn off the program completely, use Task Manager: Press Windows + X >> select Task Manager.

2. Close the program � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

In the Processes section, click the application you need to disable, then click End Task.

2. Close the program � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

3. Restart Windows Explorer

If a file is opened by Windows Explorer, that file will be locked until we restart the process. To restart Explorer, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Task Manager by pressing Windows + X or Ctrl + Shift + Esc.

Step 2: In Processes, navigate to Windows Explorer.

Step 3: Right-click Windows Explorer and select Restart.

3. Restart Windows Explorer � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

4. Restart the computer

If there is no way for you to use the file, perhaps the most effective way is to restart the computer. Just press Windows >> Power Button >> Restart.

4. Restart the computer � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

II. Using the iObit Unlocker tool

iObit Unlocker is a great tool to unlock files quickly. Unlocker helps you quickly unlock a file and edit it to your liking.

Step 1: You download iObit Unlocker on the software's official website. Then install the software on the computer.

II. Using the iObit Unlocker tool � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

Step 2: After successfully installing iObit Unlocker, find the file you want to unlock, right-click it and select iObit Unlocker.

II. Using the iObit Unlocker tool � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

Step 3: The program will automatically list the file being opened by which program. Then you just need to press Unlock to unlock it.

II. Using the iObit Unlocker tool � How to Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on

These are simple ways for you to delete, rename, copy or move files that are being used in another application.

Key Takeaways

Use the information above as a practical reference for how to fix 'file is open in another program' error on. Review each step carefully, confirm any requirements, and choose the option that best fits your situation.

FAQ

What does this guide explain about Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on?

It explains the main concepts, practical considerations, and useful steps related to fix 'file is open in another program' error on without requiring advanced knowledge.

Who can benefit from learning about Fix 'File Is Open in Another Program' Error on?

This information is useful for readers who want a clear overview, practical guidance, and reliable steps related to fix 'file is open in another program' error on.

What should I check before applying this information?

Review the requirements, confirm that your device, software, or situation matches the instructions, and back up important data before making major changes.