How to Fix Error 0x80070020: Process Cannot Access the File

By Emily Watson Jul 5, 2026 6 min read Windows

Error 0x80070020 appears when Windows Update or a program tries to access a file that is already in use by another process. This is commonly reported on Reddit and Microsoft forums by users trying to install updates or software.

Fix 1: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot prevents third-party programs from running in the background, which often resolves file access conflicts. Run msconfig, select Selective Startup, uncheck Load startup items, and go to Services tab. Check Hide all Microsoft services, click Disable all, then restart. Try your update or installation again.

Fix 2: Identify the Locking Process

Download Microsoft Process Explorer (or use the built-in Resource Monitor). Open Resource Monitor (perfmon /res), go to the CPU tab, and expand Associated Handles. Search for the file name mentioned in the error. Right-click the process holding the handle and select End Process. Retry your operation.

Fix 3: Disable Third-Party Services

Antivirus software is a common cause of this error. Temporarily disable your antivirus real-time protection. If using Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, pause syncing as these services can lock files. Restart your computer and immediately try the update before other programs start.