Windows Update

0x80070020 Another process is using the file

error meaning

A file required for the update is being used by another process.

Frequently Occurring Situations

Appears when a security check or other installation is running at the same time.

First thing to check

Check whether another installation, backup or scan is in progress.

main causes

  • Simultaneous installation
  • Background file checking
  • file lock

Step-by-step solution

If it is checked and resolved from above, you do not need to proceed to the next step.

1. Check occurrence conditions

Appears when a security check or other installation is running at the same time.

Difficulty Easy · Estimated time 5 minutes

  1. Check whether another installation, backup or scan is in progress.

Check points: Record the error code, when it occurred, and any recent changes.

2. File is in use by another process Troubleshooting procedure

A file required for the update is being used by another process.

Difficulty Moderate · Estimated time 10~30 minutes

  1. After finishing other installations and tests, reboot your PC and just run the update.
  2. If it continues to fail, try a clean boot to compare third-party service conflicts and restore normal startup settings after testing.

Check points: Quit other tasks and check if the same KB is installed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related PC FIX Issues

official reference document

Content review date: 2026-10-07

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