ERROR_DRIVE_LOCKED - 108 (0x6C)
The disk is in use or locked by another process.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_DRIVE_LOCKED error code indicates that a disk or drive is currently in use by another process and cannot be accessed. This can occur when attempting to perform operations such as formatting, ejecting, or modifying the state of the drive.
Error Details
- Error Name: ERROR_DRIVE_LOCKED
- Numeric Code: 108 (0x6C)
- Short Description: The disk is in use or locked by another process.
This error typically arises when a system-level operation conflicts with an ongoing process that has exclusive access to the drive. It can also occur if the drive is being used by another application, such as a backup utility or file synchronization service.
Usage Context
The ERROR_DRIVE_LOCKED error code is commonly encountered in scenarios where disk operations are attempted without ensuring that no other processes are using the drive. This includes but is not limited to:
- File system operations (e.g., formatting, defragmentation)
- Disk management commands
- Ejecting or unmounting drives
- Changing drive properties
Developer Interpretation
Developers should interpret this error as an indication that a disk operation cannot proceed due to the drive being in use. The application should handle such errors gracefully by informing the user and possibly retrying the operation after a delay, or providing options to terminate conflicting processes.
Related Errors
- ERROR_DISK_NOT_FOUND (21) - 0x00000015: Indicates that the specified disk is not present in the system.
- ERROR_INVALID_DRIVE (198) - 0xC0000006: Indicates an invalid drive specification or operation on a non-existent drive.
FAQ
Q: Why does this error occur?
A: The ERROR_DRIVE_LOCKED error occurs when the disk is in use by another process, preventing the requested operation from completing successfully.
Q: How can I resolve this issue?
A: Ensure that no other processes are using the drive before attempting the operation again. You may need to terminate any conflicting applications or wait for them to complete their tasks.
Summary
The ERROR_DRIVE_LOCKED error code is a generic indication that a disk operation cannot proceed due to the drive being in use by another process. Developers should handle this error by informing users and potentially retrying the operation after ensuring no other processes are accessing the drive.