Suddenly, my Visual Studio Express 2010 C++ stopped rebuilding my project.
When I first hit F7 the project builds and runs fine (heck, it’s a hello world example).
Then I make some changes and hit F7 again, then I get:
1>LINK : fatal error LNK1168: cannot open C:UsersusernameDocumentsVisual Studio 2010ProjectsconsoleDebugconsole.exe for writing**<br><br>
Now the funny thing comes:
- The app is not running and it’s not shown in the Task Manager.
- Going into the project directory and trying to remove it with hands comes with success but the file APPEARS AGAIN FROM NOWHERE.
- The system restore is disabled.
- I also tried to take the ownership of the whole damn drive.
- Every time I delete the file it recreates itself again but sometimes it stops doing that.
- If I delete the file (and it recreates after that), and then I start sysinternals procmon then the file disappears.
- If I start procmon before — then the file keeps appearing after delete like always.
OS: W7 SP1 64-bit, with latest updates
Any ideas, please?
Amal K
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asked Aug 25, 2012 at 17:25
1
The problem is probably that you forgot to close the program and that you instead have the program running in the background.
Find the console window where the exe file program is running, and close it by clicking the X in the upper right corner. Then try to recompile the program. In my case this solved the problem.
I know this posting is old, but I am answering for the other people like me who find this through the search engines.
answered Jul 6, 2013 at 6:53
CodeMedCodeMed
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7
I’ve encountered this problem when the build is abruptly closed before it is loaded. No process would show up in the Task Manager, but if you navigate to the executable generated in the project folder and try to delete it, Windows claims that the application is in use. (If not, just delete the file and rebuild, which generates a new executable)
In Windows(Visual Studio 2019), the file is located in this directory by default:
%USERPROFILE%sourcereposProjectFolderNameDebug
To end the allegedly running process, open the command prompt and type in the following command:
taskkill /F /IM ApplicationName.exe
This forces any running instance to be terminated.
Rebuild and execute!
answered Sep 17, 2019 at 16:20
Amal KAmal K
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1
Restarting Visual Studio solved the problem for me.
answered Jan 7, 2017 at 18:15
Aleksei MialkinAleksei Mialkin
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1
In my case, cleaning and rebuilding the project resolved the problem.
Uli Köhler
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answered Mar 2, 2014 at 15:35
Hau LeHau Le
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If the above solutions didn’t work, you can try this which worked for me.
Open an elevated command prompt (cmd -> Run as administrator), then write following command and hit enter:
wmic process where name='YOUR_PROCESS_NAME.exe' delete
If you see a message: Instance deletion successful., then you will be again able to build and run project from VS.
e.g. in OP’s case, the command will be:
wmic process where name='console.exe' delete
answered Aug 3, 2021 at 9:06
UkFLSUIUkFLSUI
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This solved same problem I also came across very well
- Close the app if it is still running on the taskbar,
- Open cmd (command prompt) and run the following
taskkill /F /IM ApplicationName.exe
- Rebuild your project!! error solved!
answered Sep 25, 2022 at 1:11
niosnios
911 silver badge7 bronze badges
well, I actually just saved and closed the project and restarted VS Express 2013 in windows 8 and that sorted my problem.
answered Apr 8, 2015 at 17:50
2
The Reason is that your previous build is still running in the background.
I solve this problem by following these steps:
- Open Task Manager
- Goto Details Tab
- Find Your Application
- End Task it by right clicking on it
- Done!
answered Aug 4, 2020 at 12:48
Back2LobbyBack2Lobby
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This can also be a problem from the improper use of functions like FindNextFile when a FindClose is never executed. The process of the built file is terminated, and the build itself can be deleted, but LNK1168 will prevent a rebuild because of the open handle. This can create a handle leak in Explorer which can be addressed by terminating and restarting Explorer, but in many cases an immediate reboot is necessary.
answered Oct 9, 2015 at 2:44
Laurie StearnLaurie Stearn
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I know this is an old question but thought I’d share how I resolved the issue.
If you’re using Visual Studio and this error occurs, you can try to attach to process (CTRL+ALT+P) and find the «(program).exe» process. When you try to attach to it, an error will display stating that it failed to attach which removes the process from «running» (even though it’s not…) You’ll also be able to delete the (program).exe from your Debug folder.
Hope this helps someone! 
answered Oct 4, 2019 at 5:25
tw1tch01tw1tch01
491 silver badge4 bronze badges
FINALLY THE BEST WAY WORKED PERFECTLY FOR ME
None of the solutions in this page worked for me EXCEPT THE FOLLOWING
Below the comment sections of the second answer, try the following :
Adding to my above comment, Task Manager does not display the
filename.exe process but Resource Monitor does, so I’m able to
kill it from there which solves the issue without having to reboot. –
A__ Jun 19 ’19 at 21:23
answered Aug 14, 2020 at 14:32
SamSam
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If none of the above suggested work for you, which was the case for me, just change the project name. It creates a new exe in the new project name. Later when you restart, you can change it back to your original project name.
answered Aug 22, 2021 at 9:43
RathnavelRathnavel
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I know this is an old thread but I was stumbling in the same problem also. Finding it in task manager is tricky, and I started to grow tired of having to restart my PC every time this happened.
A solution would be to download Process Explorer and there you can search for running tasks. In my case I was having the following error:
1>LINK : fatal error LNK1168: cannot open C:OutBuildVS12_appDebugplatform_test.exe for writing [C:BuildVS12_appplatform_test.vcxproj]
I searched for C:OutBuildVS12_appDebugplatform_test.exe in Process Explorer, killed it and I was able to compile.
answered Sep 15, 2022 at 11:15
Ra’wRa’w
1132 silver badges10 bronze badges
I also had this same issue. My console window was no longer open, but I was able to see my application running by going to processes within task manager. The process name was the name of my application. Once I ended the process I was able to build and compile my code with no issues.
answered Sep 12, 2013 at 23:54
JasonJason
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Start your program as an administrator. The program can’t rewrite your files cause your files are in a protected location on your hard drive.
answered Jan 6, 2014 at 15:07
0
- Remove From My Forums
-
Вопрос
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Подскажите пожалуйста. Пишу исходник в Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Express Edition. Компилирую — все нормально, работает. вношу какие либо изменения в коде и пытаюсь заново скомпилировать. Выдает вот такую ошибку.
1>—— Построение начато: проект: 5_stepen’, Конфигурация: Debug Win32 ——
1>Компиляция…
1>stepen’.cpp
1>Компоновка…
1>LINK : fatal error LNK1168: не удается открыть C:UsersAntonDocumentsVisual Studio 2008Projects5_stepen’Debug5_stepen’.exe для записи
1>Журнал построения был сохранен в «file://c:UsersAntonDocumentsVisual Studio 2008Projects5_stepen’5_stepen’DebugBuildLog.htm»
1>5_stepen’ — ошибок 1, предупреждений 0
========== Построение: успешно: 0, с ошибками: 1, без изменений: 0, пропущено: 0 ==========Для устранения приходится сохранить мой.cpp и закрыть прогу. через 2 минуты отрывать. тогда запускается компиляция. Ни чего не могу поделать.
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2 октября 2010 г. 0:53
MSDN Forums Consolidation (От:Visual Studio — отзывы и пожелания)
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Перемещено
Ответы
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Добрый день.
Такое происходит, когда Ваш файл 5_stepen.exe не доступен для записи. В ОС WinNT это ситуация возникает, когда файл залочен. Причиной может служить следующее: Вы скомпилировали проект и запустили полученный код. Вносите изменения, компилируете, но запись в файл .exe линковщиком не может быть выполнена, т.к. программа продолжает выполняться, т.е. она продолжает висеть в памяти. Для решения проблемы необходимо просто остановить выполнение Вашей программы 5_stepen.exe.
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Помечено в качестве ответа
-An-
9 мая 2010 г. 19:15
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Помечено в качестве ответа
| description | title | ms.date | f1_keywords | helpviewer_keywords | ms.assetid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Learn more about: Linker Tools Error LNK1168 |
Linker Tools Error LNK1168 |
11/04/2016 |
LNK1168 |
LNK1168 |
97ead151-fd99-46fe-9a1d-7e84dc0b8cc8 |
cannot open filename for writing
The linker can’t write to filename. The file may be in use and its file handle locked by another process, or you may not have write permission for the file, or for the directory or network share it is located in. This error is often caused by a transient condition—for example, a lock held by an anti-virus program, a file search indexing process, or a delay in releasing a lock held by the Visual Studio build system.
To fix this issue, verify that the filename file handle is not locked, and that you have write permission for the file. If it is an executable, verify that it is not already running.
You can use the Windows SysInternals utilities Handle or Process Explorer to determine which process has a file handle lock on filename. You can also use Process Explorer to release locks on open file handles. For information about how to use these utilities, see the Help files that come with them.
If the file is locked by an anti-virus program, you can fix this issue by excluding your build output directories from automatic scanning by the anti-virus program. Anti-virus scanners are often triggered by the creation of new files in the file system, and they hold locks on the files while the scan proceeds. Consult your anti-virus program documentation for details about how to exclude specific directories from scanning.
If the file is locked by a search indexing service, you can fix this issue by excluding your build output directories from automatic indexing. Consult the documentation for the indexing service for more information. To change the Windows search indexing service, use Indexing Options in the Windows Control Panel. For more information, see Search indexing in Windows 10: FAQ.
If your executable can’t be overwritten by the build process, it may be locked by File Explorer. If the Application Experience service has been disabled, File Explorer may hold on to an executable file handle lock for an extended time. To fix this issue, run services.msc and then open the Properties dialog box for the Application Experience service. Change the Startup type from Disabled to Manual.
In this guide, we will walk you through the process of resolving the Link Fatal Error LNK1168 — Cannot Open Issue. This error is commonly encountered by developers using Microsoft Visual Studio when attempting to build or compile their projects.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Link Fatal Error LNK1168
- Step-by-Step Solution
- FAQs
Understanding Link Fatal Error LNK1168
Link Fatal Error LNK1168 occurs when the linker is unable to open the specified file for writing. This may happen for a variety of reasons, such as the file being in use by another process, the file being read-only, or the user not having the necessary permissions to modify the file.
The error message typically looks like this:
LINK : fatal error LNK1168: cannot open [filename].exe for writing
To resolve this error, you need to identify the cause and follow the appropriate steps to fix it.
Step-by-Step Solution
Close any running instances of the program: If the program you are trying to build is currently running, Visual Studio will not be able to overwrite the existing .exe file. Close the running program and try to build your project again.
Check for file access issues: If the error persists, verify that the file is not marked as read-only or locked by another process. To do this, right-click on the file, select «Properties», and ensure that the «Read-only» checkbox is not ticked.
Run Visual Studio as an administrator: If you’re still encountering the error, it’s possible that you lack the necessary permissions to modify the file. Running Visual Studio as an administrator can help resolve this issue. To do this, right-click on the Visual Studio icon and select «Run as administrator».
Check for antivirus interference: Some antivirus programs may block Visual Studio from accessing certain files. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus software and rebuilding your project.
Delete the .exe file manually: If none of the above steps work, try deleting the .exe file manually from the project’s output directory. Once the file is deleted, rebuild your project.
FAQs
1. What is Visual Studio Linker?
The Visual Studio linker is a tool that combines the compiled code and resources from multiple input files into a single executable file. It is responsible for resolving external references, generating debug information, and performing optimizations.
2. Why am I getting a Link Fatal Error LNK1168?
Link Fatal Error LNK1168 occurs when the linker is unable to open the specified file for writing. This may be due to the file being in use by another process, the file being read-only, or the user not having the necessary permissions to modify the file.
3. Can I ignore Link Fatal Error LNK1168?
No, you cannot ignore Link Fatal Error LNK1168. It is a fatal error that prevents the linker from generating the final executable file. You must resolve the issue before you can successfully build your project.
4. How can I prevent Link Fatal Error LNK1168 from occurring in the future?
To prevent Link Fatal Error LNK1168 from occurring in the future, ensure that your project’s output files are not in use by other processes, have the necessary permissions to modify the files, and keep your antivirus software updated and configured to avoid conflicts with Visual Studio.
5. What other link errors might I encounter in Visual Studio?
There are several other link errors that you may encounter in Visual Studio, such as LNK1104 (cannot open file), LNK2001 (unresolved external symbol), and LNK2019 (unresolved external symbol). Each error has its own specific causes and solutions.
- Microsoft Docs: Linker Tools Error LNK1168
- Stack Overflow: Visual Studio Error LNK1168
- Microsoft Visual Studio: Official Site
Is Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168 appearing? Would you like to safely and quickly eliminate application experience windows which additionally can lead to a blue screen of death?
When you manually edit your Windows Registry trying to take away the invalid lnk1168 c++ keys you’re taking a authentic chance. Unless you’ve got been adequately trained and experienced you’re in danger of disabling your computer system from working at all. You could bring about irreversible injury to your whole operating system. As very little as just 1 misplaced comma can preserve your Pc from even booting every one of the way by!
Troubleshooting application experience visual studio Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 & 10
Simply because this chance is so higher, we hugely suggest that you make use of a trusted registry cleaner plan like CCleaner (Microsoft Gold Partner Licensed). This system will scan and then fix any Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168 complications.
Registry cleaners automate the entire procedure of finding invalid registry entries and missing file references (including the Lnk1168 error) likewise as any broken hyperlinks inside of your registry.
Issue with how to launch a console window
Backups are made immediately prior to each and every scan providing you with the choice of undoing any changes with just one click. This protects you against doable damaging your pc. Another advantage to these registry cleaners is that repaired registry errors will strengthen the speed and performance of one’s procedure drastically.
- https://social.msdn.microsoft.com/Forums/vstudio/en-US/fcdde3bc-43a1-4ab6-b0b5-9525fe4e84c8/fatal-error-lnk1168-cannot-open-filenameexe-for-writing?forum=vcgeneral
- http://www.programmingforums.org/thread44920.html
- http://www.windowsbbs.com/other-pc-software/100938-fatal-error-lnk1168-when-i-try-run-visual-studio-express.html
- http://stackoverflow.com/questions/12124146/vc-fatal-error-lnk1168-cannot-open-filename-exe-for-writing
Cautionary Note: Yet again, for those who are not an state-of-the-art consumer it’s very encouraged that you simply refrain from editing your Windows Registry manually. If you make even the smallest error within the Registry Editor it can result in you some serious issues that may even call for a brand new set up of Windows. Not all difficulties attributable to incorrect Registry Editor use are solvable.
Fixed: net start aelookupsvc
Symptoms of Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168
“Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168” appears and crashes the energetic method window.
Your Personal computer routinely crashes with Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168 when running the exact same system.
“Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168” is shown.
Windows operates sluggishly and responds little by little to mouse or keyboard input.
Your computer periodically “freezes” for the number of seconds in a time.
Will cause of Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168
Corrupt obtain or incomplete set up of Windows Operating System software program.
Corruption in Windows registry from a new Windows Operating System-related application adjust (install or uninstall).
Virus or malware infection which has corrupted Windows method documents or Windows Operating System-related application data files.
Another method maliciously or mistakenly deleted Windows Operating System-related files.
Mistakes this sort of as “Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168” can be brought about by several different elements, so it really is important that you troubleshoot every of the achievable brings about to forestall it from recurring.
Simply click the beginning button.
Variety “command” inside the lookup box… Will not hit ENTER nonetheless!
Although keeping CTRL-Shift in your keyboard, hit ENTER.
You’re going to be prompted that has a authorization dialog box.
Click on Of course.
A black box will open having a blinking cursor.
Variety “regedit” and hit ENTER.
Within the Registry Editor, choose the lnk1168 c++ connected key (eg. Windows Operating System) you wish to back again up.
Within the File menu, choose Export.
Inside the Preserve In list, pick out the folder in which you wish to save the Windows Operating System backup key.
Inside the File Title box, sort a reputation for the backup file, these types of as “Windows Operating System Backup”.
From the Export Vary box, ensure that “Selected branch” is selected.
Click on Help you save.
The file is then saved by using a .reg file extension.
You now use a backup within your application experience visual studio related registry entry.
Solution to your application experience windows 10 problem
There are actually some manual registry editing measures that can not be talked about in this article due to the high chance involved for your laptop or computer method. If you want to understand more then check out the links below.
Additional Measures:
One. Conduct a Thorough Malware Scan
There’s a probability the Studio Microsoft Lnk1168 Error Visual error is relevant to some variety of walware infection. These infections are malicious and ready to corrupt or damage and possibly even delete your ActiveX Control Error files. Also, it’s attainable that your Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168 is actually connected to some element of that malicious plan itself.
2. Clean application experience service windows 10 Disk Cleanup
The a lot more you employ your computer the extra it accumulates junk files. This comes from surfing, downloading packages, and any sort of usual computer system use. When you don’t clean the junk out occasionally and keep your program clean, it could turn into clogged and respond slowly. That is when you can encounter an Lnk1168 error because of possible conflicts or from overloading your hard drive.
Once you clean up these types of files using Disk Cleanup it could not just remedy Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168, but could also create a dramatic change in the computer’s efficiency.
Tip: While ‘Disk Cleanup’ is definitely an excellent built-in tool, it even now will not completely clean up application experience discovered on your PC. There are numerous programs like Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Office and more, that cannot be cleaned with ‘Disk Cleanup’.
Since the Disk Cleanup on Windows has its shortcomings it is extremely encouraged that you use a specialized sort of challenging drive cleanup and privacy safety application like CCleaner. This system can clean up your full pc. If you run this plan after each day (it could be set up to run instantly) you are able to be assured that your Pc is generally clean, often operating speedy, and always absolutely free of any Error error associated with your temporary files.
How Disk Cleanup can help lnk1168 cannot open dll for writing
1. Click your ‘Start’ Button.
2. Style ‘Command’ into your search box. (no ‘enter’ yet)
3. When holding down in your ‘CTRL-SHIFT’ important go ahead and hit ‘Enter’.
4. You will see a ‘permission dialogue’ box.
5. Click ‘Yes’
6. You will see a black box open up plus a blinking cursor.
7. Variety in ‘cleanmgr’. Hit ‘Enter’.
8. Now Disk Cleanup will start calculating the amount of occupied disk space you will be able to reclaim.
9. Now a ‘Disk Cleanup dialogue box’ seems. There will be a series of checkboxes for you personally to pick. Generally it will likely be the ‘Temporary Files’ that consider up the vast majority of your disk area.
10. Verify the boxes that you want cleaned. Click ‘OK’.
How to repair application experience windows 8
3. System Restore can also be a worthwhile device if you ever get stuck and just desire to get back to a time when your computer system was working ideal. It will work without affecting your pics, paperwork, or other crucial information. You can discover this option with your User interface.
application experience
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Microsoft Visual Studio Error Lnk1168
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