Microsoft Windows Error Code 0xC0000043: How to Fix It

Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
Summarize with ChatGPTSummarize with ClaudeSummarize with Perplexity Add as Preferred Source on Google
Error Code
0xC0000043
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-30 minutes
Error 0xC0000043, also known as STATUS_SHARING_VIOLATION, appears when a program or process tries to access a file that is already locked by another application. This often happens when you try to delete, move, or modify a file that is open in another program. The fix involves identifying and closing the process that has the file locked.
Ad

Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0xC0000043

  1. Use Process Explorer to Find the Locking Process

    Be careful not to close critical system processes. If unsure, skip to Step 2.

  2. Close the Process

    Killing a process will lose any unsaved data in that program. Save your work first if possible.

  3. Use LockHunter to Unlock the File

  4. Restart Windows Explorer

  5. Disable File Indexing (Temporary)

    Disabling indexing may slow down file searches temporarily.

  6. Reboot Your Computer

Ad

When to Call a Professional

If the error persists after trying all steps and you cannot identify the locking process, you may have malware or a deeply integrated driver issue. Contact a system administrator or professional technician for advanced analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error 0xC0000043 mean in Windows?
It means STATUS_SHARING_VIOLATION: a file you're trying to access is locked by another program or process. Common when moving, deleting, or editing files in use.
How do I find which process is locking a file in Windows?
Use a free tool like Process Explorer (Microsoft) or LockHunter. They show all processes with open handles to the file.
Can I fix error 0xC0000043 without third-party tools?
Yes, but it's harder. Try restarting Windows Explorer, closing programs one by one, or rebooting. Tools make it much easier.
Is error 0xC0000043 dangerous?
No, it's a normal file-locking error. It indicates a file is in use, not a system failure or malware. However, persistent issues could indicate a buggy program.
What if the file is still locked after reboot?
If the file remains locked after reboot, the lock may be from a startup program or malware. Run a full antivirus scan and disable startup programs one by one using Task Manager.

Related Error Codes