File locked by user - what to do?

If the error message "File locked by user" appears under Windows, it is mostly a shared file that is used by two computers on the network at the same time. We'll show you how to solve the problem.

Error Message: "File Locked By User"

So that you can still access the file, you must end access on one of the two PCs. Either manually close the file on one of the computers, or do the following:

1. If you receive the error message on your computer, press the "Windows" and "R" keys at the same time so that the "Execute" command opens.
2. Enter "compmgmt.msc" and confirm your entry by clicking "OK". Then the computer management opens.
3. Navigate to the "System", "Shared Folders" and "Open Files" items one after the other in the menu on the left.
4. You should now find the said file here. Right-click on the file to end the connection to the second PC.
5. If that doesn't work, right-click on an empty space below the files and select the "Separate all open files" option. Access should work again at the latest.

This practical tip shows you how to open a file automatically when Windows starts.