File Already in Use and Already Opened Errors

In this Microsoft Access tutorial, we're going to learn how to deal with experiencing the "File already in use" error message when you try compacting your database. You may also get the error message saying, "You attempted to open a database that's already opened by another user. Try again when the database is available." We'll talk about both of these issues today.

Kieran from Miami, Florida (a Platinum Member) asks: I try to compact my database at least once a week, like you told me in your compacting video. But it seems most of the time when I do, I get an error message saying that the database is already in use. I do have a few other people on my network, but I always make sure that everyone's logged out. In fact, no one else is here in the office and all the computers are off, but I still get the error message. What gives?

Prerequisites

• Compact & Repair: https://599cd.com/Compact

Links

• Backup Access: https://599cd.com/Backup
• File Sharing Services: https://599cd.com/FileSharing
• Troubleshooter: https://599cd.com/Trouble

Checklist

• Make sure everyone is out of the database (including you)
• Delete the LACCDB file
• Make sure no MSACCESS.EXE tasks are running
• Open with SHIFT key bypass
• Try compacting a copy of the database file
• Don't use a shortcut (go in thru Access > File > your database)
• Restart Windows
• Office Update (check bug reports)
• Create a new blank database, import objects
• Import objects one at a time
• Turn off File Sharing Services (Google Sync, Dropbox, etc.)
• Check my Troubleshooter

Bug Alerts

• No Longer Set: https://nolongerset.com (Mike Wolfe)
• Access Forever: https://www.accessforever.org (Karl Donaubauer, et al.)
• Official Microsoft Access Blog: https://599cd.com/AccessBlog (Access Team)

Repair Services

• Everything Access: https://www.everythingaccess.com (Wayne Phillips)
• Access Experts: https://accessexperts.com (Juan Soto, et al.)
• Winning Solutions, Inc. https://microsoftaccessexpert.com (Bob Estabrook)

Recommended Courses

• FREE Access Beginner Level 1: https://599cd.com/ACB1

Learn More FREE Access Beginner Level 1 FREE Access Quick Start in 30 Minutes Access Level 2 for just $1 Free Templates TechHelp Free Templates Blank Template Contact Management Order Entry & Invoicing More Access Templates

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