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0x80070020

A required file is in use by another process

Home / Error Codes / File access / 0x80070020

The process cannot access a file because another process is using it.

SeverityMediumSystemsWindows 10 / 11SymbolERROR_SHARING_VIOLATIONUpdatedAug 31, 2026

Overview

Updates and installers can encounter this when security software, a running application, or another installer holds a required file open.

Common causes

  • Another installer is running
  • Security scanning holds a file
  • A service has not released a component
  • A pending restart has locked files

Symptoms

  • Installation fails while replacing files
  • Retry succeeds after restart
  • The same file is reported as in use

Prevention

  • Install one major package at a time
  • Restart after updates that request it
  • Avoid force-closing installers

0x80070020 diagnostic evidence

Official-definition grounded

Use the code identity and the affected operation together. The same numeric result can appear in different workflows, so logs and symptoms determine the safest repair branch.

Hexadecimal0X80070020
Unsigned decimal2147942432
SymbolERROR_SHARING_VIOLATION
Error familyFile access
Severity bitFailure
Evidence sourceMicrosoft System Error Codes
1Confirm the operationInstallation fails while replacing files
2Collect matching evidenceRetry succeeds after restart
3Retest the same actionThe same file is reported as in use

Definition source: Microsoft System Error Codes. This report preserves the official code identity and does not claim one universal cause.

How to troubleshoot error 0x80070020

A sharing violation usually means another process still has a required file open. Start with reversible isolation steps.

1

Restart to release pending files

Save your work and restart Windows. Retry the update or installer before changing services or deleting files.

2

Close related applications and installers

Close the affected program and allow other installers to finish. Check for a pending restart before trying again.

3

Use a clean boot only if needed

If the conflict returns, use Microsoft’s clean-boot procedure to isolate third-party interference, then restore normal startup afterward.

Before advanced repair: Do not delete locked files or disable security protection blindly. Identify the process and preserve any unsaved work first.

Official-source grounding

The error meaning is grounded in Microsoft System Error Codes. The visual sequence also follows Microsoft Support guidance for Windows Update troubleshooting. Causes and repair steps vary by system evidence; this report does not claim a universal success rate.

Frequently asked questions

What does 0x80070020 mean?

The process cannot access a file because another process is using it. Updates and installers can encounter this when security software, a running application, or another installer holds a required file open.

Is 0x80070020 always caused by the same problem?

No. The code identifies a failure condition, but the exact cause depends on the affected operation, Windows build, logs, and recent system changes.

Can Advanced System Repair help with 0x80070020?

Advanced System Repair can scan for damaged Windows components and related system issues. No tool can guarantee one universal fix; preserve backups and match repair steps to the evidence on the affected PC.