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FIX: OneDrive The file is locked for shared use by… error
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
The file is locked for shareduse by…is an error message that some OneDrive users have seen pop up on their OneDrive pages.
Consequently, they can’t open or delete a locked file. The error message occurs for users sharing files on networks.
These are a few resolutions that might fix the file locking OneDrive error.
How can I solve The file is locked for shared use by… error?
1. Turn Off the Require Check Out option
2. Adjust the Permissions Level Settings
3. Wait a few hours
It might just be the case that another user is indeed editing the document. Thus, wait a few hours, or till the next day, before returning to open the required file.
However, check out some of the other fixes below if you’re sure that another user is not editing the file.
4. Check That the File isn’t Already Open
You might have already opened the locked file within your browser or other Office software.
To make sure that isn’t the case, close all your browser tabs and then the browser. Then check there are no Office apps or processes listed in Task Manager as described above.
5. Try out a different cloud storage provider
If bypassing this OneDrive error seems like too much trouble for you, then it’s a sign that it’s time to take a look at a different cloud storage provider.
When a cloud solution connectivity fails, it opens the door to finding much higher-rated cloud services. Of course, OneDrive is a reliable and dependable service, but it isn’t the only one.
In a nutshell, if you want to take a shortcut, at least for the time being, go directly to another cloud provider. Furthermore, you may need extra capacity in the near future, so pre-checking for another backup cloud storage solution is a smart move to get the best deals.
A premiumcloud storage solutionthat is designed for both regular and business users, is always a good idea to try, even if just as a workaround. User rights and permissions can still be easily set to manage access and benefit end-to-end encryption.
If you are not exactly sure which option works best for you, some cloud service providers offer free trials and demo versions.
One of those resolutions that might fixThe file is lockederror message so that you can open or delete the required file in OneDrive for Business.
If you have another resolution for fixing locked files in OneDrive, feel free to share it below.
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
