Optimistic vs. Pessimistic Locking in MS Access

In this Microsoft Access tutorial, I will show you how to address common issues with optimistic and pessimistic record locking, as well as introduce page-level locking for efficient multi-user database management. Learn how to simulate a multi-user environment, understand the pros and cons of each locking type, and decide which method is best for your database needs. We'll explore how to apply different locking strategies to specific tables, ensuring data integrity while maintaining performance. Additionally, discover best practices for database distribution and setup to avoid common pitfalls.

Alyssa from Fort Collins, Colorado (a Platinum Member) asks: I followed your instructions on setting my forms to use edited record locking, and while it's generally effective, I'm having some issues. Occasionally, a record remains locked if a user begins editing but then leaves their session open, causing others to get stuck. Additionally, I'm facing issues with update queries failing due to lock violations. There are also instances when users receive the "another user has modified this record" error without anyone else editing the same record. Could you provide guidance on how to resolve these issues?

Members

In the extended cut, I'm going to show you a way to programmatically determine if Access already has the record locked and, if so, display a message to the user when they browse to that record, indicating that the record is locked and they can't edit it.

•  01. Free Video
•  02. Extended Cut Video - Silver Members
•  File Download - Gold Members
• Is Record Locked Code in Vault - Gold Members

Silver Members and up get access to view Extended Cut videos, when available. Gold Members can download the files from class plus get access to the Code Vault. If you're not a member, Join Today!

Prerequisites

• Record Locks

Links

• Access Updater

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Keywords

TechHelp Access, optimistic record locking, pessimistic record locking, page-level locking, multi-user database, edited record locks, locking issues troubleshooting, resolving lock violations, write conflict error, data conflicts resolution, resolving update query failures, Access database best practices, front-end distribution, Access Updater tool, SQL Server row versioning, record locking types comparison, handling concurrent data entries