Users frequently encounter the frustrating message, “The action can’t be completed because the file is open in another program,” when attempting to manage files in Windows. This error arises from file locking mechanisms designed to prevent data corruption but fails to specify which process is causing the issue.
Microsoft has developed a solution to this problem through its PowerToys suite, which includes a tool named Locksmith. This utility allows users to determine which program is locking a file. After installing PowerToys, users can simply right-click on the file in question and select "Unlock with Locksmith" to identify the culprit.
While users can resort to methods such as checking the Resource Monitor or restarting their computers, these approaches are cumbersome and often ineffective. The addition of Locksmith offers a more straightforward resolution, addressing a long-standing frustration for Windows users.