If you receive Error copying file or folder, requested resource is in use, a message when copying files or folders from one disk to another, this message will help you. The error occurs when the files you are trying to copy are used by another application or occupied by another process. Windows generally locks files or programs in use, so no other process changes them.
Error copying file or folder, requested resource is in use
Here are some ways to resolve this error, and it is mainly related to a program blocking access to files. Once deleted, you will be able to copy the files and folders.
- Turn off the preview pane
- Close programs using files
- Check for viruses in safe mode
- Restore the system
Be sure to check if the issue has been resolved after following each of the methods listed above. Only then can you understand what solved the problem.
Before you start, restart your PC and try again. It worked several times.
1]Rotate the preview pane in File Explorer
This mode allows you to preview files in a directory. Depending on the number of files, it may take a while for file explorer to generate it, especially if you open it less often. When generating the preview, the files are in the locked state and if you try to copy it before the process is complete, it may cause an error. Since the requested resource is used by the file explorer, you may not be able to copy it.
To resolve it, turn off the preview pane. Switch to View mode, then click on the preview pane to disable it. You can also use ALT + P to toggle the preview pane.
2]Close programs using files
If a program uses one of these files, the same error will result. Similar problems, such as source or destination files being used or another user using this program, occur due to the same problem.
We recommend applications like Process Explorer to close such a file lock. The app reveals a list of processes, and if you see a program with high CPU usage, this will help you understand it.
3]Check for viruses in safe mode
If nothing else works, there is a slight chance that there is a rogue program on the computer that locks files and resources. It is recommended that you boot into Safe Mode and then scan the computer using Windows Defender or any other security software.
Since there is an offline mode for Windows Defender, it ensures that the file can be scanned without the Internet and safely deleted. Publish this; you can copy the files without any problem.
4]System Restauration
If Windows System Restore is enabled, it is wise to move on to a day when everything is working. Open System Restore, then select a date to restore.
Make sure not to interrupt the system restore while it is in progress.
Related readings:
- Windows File and Folder Troubleshooting Tool
- Unspecified error when copying a file or folder
- There is not enough disk space to complete the operation
- The file or folder does not exist, cannot be moved or renamed.