Windows keeps displaying "Windows can't stop your Volume device because a program is still using it" whenever I try to safely remove my external hard drive. I've closed all the files and applications I opened from the drive, but the warning still appears. I usually have to click the eject option repeatedly before the drive finally disconnects. What could be keeping it in use, and how can I identify or fix the problem?
3 Answers
Media players can keep files locked after you close them. VLC, for example, may retain recently opened media or folders. Clearing its recent-media history and fully exiting the program can release the drive.
Repeatedly unplugging the drive can work, but it’s risky and may cause file-system errors or data loss. It’s safer to identify the process holding the drive, close background programs such as media players or file managers, and wait briefly before trying the eject option again. If you have no alternative, check the drive for errors before using it again.
Something still has a file or folder open on the drive, even if it isn’t obvious. A utility such as Process Explorer can show which process has an open handle to the drive, helping you close the application that is blocking ejection.
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