Windows System Errors
Windows 0x80070020 The process cannot access the file because it is being used by another process
The process cannot access the file because it is being used by another process
What 0x80070020 Means
The 0x80070020 error on the Windows System Errors indicates the process cannot access the file because it is being used by another process. This typically occurs due to antivirus software actively scanning a file that an update needs to modify.
The 0x80070020 error indicates a 'sharing violation' at the file system level. It happens when two different processes attempt to access or modify the same file simultaneously using incompatible access modes.
Technical Background
Windows uses a locking mechanism to preserve data integrity. If a process opens a file with 'exclusive access', no other process—including system services—can read or write to it until the lock is released.
During a Windows Update, many system files must be replaced. If an external tool (like a real-time scanner or a legacy driver) holds a handle to these files, the kernel returns 0x80070020 to prevent a collision.
This is typically a transient error. It does not mean the file is corrupted, only that it is currently 'busy' in a way that prevents the requested operation from completing safely.
Common Causes
- Antivirus software actively scanning a file that an update needs to modify
- A background application holding an exclusive lock on a system binary
- Disk utility or backup software running concurrently with a system change
Typical Scenarios
- Windows Update fails to replace a file because a third-party antivirus is currently inspecting it
- A user tries to delete a folder while a hidden background process still has one of its files open
What to Know
Identification of the process holding the file lock and temporary suspension of real-time security scanning are common ways to resolve lock contention and allow the update to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Windows 0x80070020 error
This error means a file is being used by another program. Usually, restarting your computer or temporarily turning off your antivirus will release the file so the update can finish.