Share via

The database engine could not lock table 'whatever' because it is already in use by another person or process

Anonymous
2014-01-14T15:30:49+00:00

I am trying to create a relationship between tables in Access 2007. When I do I receive the error "The database engine could not lock table 'whatever' because it is already in use by another person or process". The database is not being used by anyone else.

How can I fix this problem?

Microsoft 365 and Office | Access | For home | Windows

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments

4 answers

Sort by: Most helpful
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Anonymous
    2014-01-14T15:50:45+00:00

    You could currently have the table open, including if it's in use by another object such as a form, report or query.  Make sure all other objects are closed before creating the relationship.

    400+ people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  2. Anonymous
    2014-01-14T15:53:07+00:00

    By any chance, do you have the database open twice? I accidently do that from time to time. Or maybe the 'whatever' table is open in design view or data sheet view while you are trying to set up the relationship.

    If none of the above applies compact the database and try again.

    90+ people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  3. Anonymous
    2016-01-30T19:40:29+00:00

    Problem is it is not obvious how to close a table.  For me anyway.  Dealing with some serious newbies here.

    40+ people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  4. Anonymous
    2016-01-30T20:01:45+00:00

    Please do not piggy-back on an old thread. Start a new thread and describe your problem in detail.

    30+ people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments