Solved: Excel Error Someone Else is Working in

Enable full file access to edit simultaneously

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Published onOctober 4, 2024

published onOctober 4, 2024

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Collaboration on Excel documents makes syncing easier but if someone else is working in it, you may be unable to edit and get an error.

Even though multiple users can access and edit the workbook simultaneously, you may receive this error message. This means that other users cannot access it until the one who is editing is done making changes.

Other reasons could stem from compatibility issues especially if each user is on a different version of Excel. Also, if theExcel file closes unexpectedly or crashes, the temporary files may get corrupted and only the original file will be accessible to the first user.

How do I fix theSomeone else is working in…error in Excel?

1. Troubleshoot Internet connection issues

1.1 Run the Internet connections troubleshooter

1.2 Run the network adapter troubleshooter

You can also tryconnecting to a different connectionto check whether the issue is ISP related.

2. Download the latest updates for Excel

3. Save file with a different name and in a different location

Saving in a different location allows you to bypass any access restrictions that may have been present. It also creates another instance of the same document which means you can edit it without theSomeone else is working in..error showing up.

Should you encounter theyoucan’t save in this location error, ensure you’reusing the administrator account.

4. Check and change file permissions

Read-only rights are limiting and you need full access to make changes to the document. In the same breath, ensure youenable the hidden admin accountand see if this resolves the error.

5. Repair the Excel app

If none of these solutions, work, tryusing Excel for web. Working on the desktop has some limitations and may cause conflicts on the file versions unless resolved. The other workaround is to wait until the user is done.

If waiting is not an option for you, tryother Excel alternativesespecially tools likeGoogle Sheets where you can give accessto multiple users who can make edits simultaneously. The only drawback is that these programs may not offer the same advanced features as Excel.

That brings us to a close but do let us know which solution worked for you in the comment section below.

Solved: Excel Error Someone Else is Working in#

How do I fix theSomeone else is working in…error in Excel?#

1. Troubleshoot Internet connection issues#

2. Download the latest updates for Excel#

3. Save file with a different name and in a different location#

4. Check and change file permissions#

5. Repair the Excel app#