How to Resolve ERROR_LOCK_VIOLATION on Windows PC [Solutions]

Encountering errors on Windows can be quite disconcerting, yet it’s a prevalent experience among users. Many may find themselves confused by different error codes, feeling as though there’s no solution in sight. However, there are often remedies available.

While using various programs on your Windows computer, you might come across an error message stating: “ERROR_LOCK_VIOLATION 33 (0x21) The process cannot access the file because another process has locked a portion of the file.” This error indicates that a particular file is currently inaccessible due to another process holding it up.

Troubleshooting Techniques to Fix ERROR_LOCK_VIOLATION on Your PC

Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting strategies that can assist in resolving this Windows error. Below are some approaches you can try to see if they help.

Perform a Quick Restart on Your Windows PC

A fundamental troubleshooting step is to simply restart your computer. Closing all applications and rebooting your system can often help refresh the various processes involved.

Consider Closing Other Applications

Various applications running simultaneously may cause conflicts. It’s advisable to close any unnecessary apps and then attempt to access the file again. You can do this via the Windows Task Manager by force quitting other applications.

Ensure that you also shut down any specific apps that might be involved in the issue.

Try Accessing the File from Alternative Directories

Begin by copying the original file and pasting it into a different folder. Check if you’re able to open it from there.

Run SFC Scan and DSM Scan

Launch Windows PowerShell with administrative rights. Enter the command sfc /scannow and press Enter. If no issues are detected, you can explore other solutions. Otherwise, proceed with a DSM scan.

To carry out a DSM scan, type in dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth and press Enter.

Conduct a Disk Error Examination

Open File Explorer and navigate to This PC. Right-click on the C: drive or whichever primary drive you are using. Select Properties, go to the Tools tab, and find the Error checking section. Click the Check button to initiate the process.

Once this is done, repeat the same steps for any additional drives.

Utilize Windows System Restore

Head over to Windows Settings and click on the About section. Scroll down to find System Protection and click on the System Restore button. Click Next and then select the Finish button. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Conclusion

The aforementioned methods are potential solutions to troubleshoot the ERROR_LOCK_VIOLATION on your Windows computer. You can address them one at a time to see if any of these approaches resolve the issue.

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