Renaming failed -"folder or file somewhere open."

[Pichler1508]

I want to rename a folder. It worked with other folders but not with this folder. It says, "folder or file somewhere open." I am not aware that I have any files open. I shut down the computer - then also, all files are closed? Or am I wrong?

[maher1982]

Hi Pichler, 

If you're trying to rename a folder in Dropbox and receiving a message that the folder or file is open somewhere, it usually means that another user or application is currently accessing or using that file.

To resolve this issue, you can try the following steps, maybe one of them could help:

1. Make sure that you're the only user accessing the folder. Close any programs or applications that may be using files within the folder.
2. If you're collaborating with others on the same folder, check with them to ensure they're not currently accessing or editing any files within the folder.
3. Ensure that you have a stable internet connection. Unstable connections may cause synchronisation issues and prevent you from renaming the folder.
4. If you've checked the above steps and you're still unable to rename the folder, try signing out of Dropbox and signing back in. This action can sometimes resolve temporary synchronisation issues.
5. Restart your computer and try renaming the folder again. Restarting can help close any background processes that may be accessing the file.

[Megan]

Hi @Pichler1508, welcome to our Community! 

I wanted to jump in here, and ask if you're still experiencing this issue, and if you'd like for us to have a closer look together. 

Can you clarify the OS you're using on your end? Feel free to send me a screenshot of the error message you get too.

Keep me posted, and we'll take it from there! 

[Pichler1508]

After I had tried many ways, I finally gave up and went to this board. I tried to today the renaming action again and I see it worked. Why I don't know, but it is fine.

Thanks for getting involved, and maybe you helped already.

best regards

otto

[Pichler1508 · Accepted solution]

Dear Maher,

I appreciate your support. There are many hints, maybe I need to use them in the future. After not trying for 2 days, by surprise it worked today. Maybe synchronisation issue?

However, thanks and greetings

Otto