LOCK File

What are LOCK files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a LOCK file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your LOCK files.

What is a LOCK file?

Files that contain the .lock file extension are most commonly associated with Microsoft's .NET Framework. The LOCK file format is used to create "locked" copies of a database file.

When a database is already in use and another user tries to open it, a locked copy of the file will be opened instead of the editable copy. This file is saved with the .lock file suffix. This LOCK file prevents the user from making changes to the file while another user is editing it.

The Adobe Lightroom software application also uses the .lock file extension for locked database files.

How to open LOCK files

Important: Different programs may use files with the LOCK file extension for different purposes, so unless you are sure which format your LOCK file is, you may need to try a few different programs.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested two different LOCK openers which you will find listed below.

Last updated: March 10, 2023

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of LOCK files. Remember, different programs may use LOCK files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.

Help us help others

File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about LOCK file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.