Fix Cannot Move ProPlus2021Retail.img Because It Is Open in System
Question details
The user is unable to move or rename the Microsoft Office 2021 installation image file due to a system error stating the file is currently open.
- Product
- Microsoft Office 2021
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to move, rename, or delete the downloaded Office installation IMG file after mounting or during background security scans.
- Observed behavior
- Windows blocks the file operation, triggering a prompt that says the action cannot be completed because the file is open in another program.
Ensure all active Microsoft Office installation dialogs are closed and verify that you have administrator privileges to modify system security settings if necessary.
Eject the Mounted IMG Virtual Drive
Use this solution if you previously double-clicked the IMG file, which causes Windows to mount it as a virtual drive and keeps the file locked.
When you open an IMG or ISO file in Windows 10 or 11, the operating system mounts it as a virtual DVD drive to access the installation files. As long as this virtual drive is active, the original IMG file is considered 'in use' and cannot be moved or deleted.
Press the Windows Key + E to launch File Explorer on your computer.
Click on 'This PC' in the left-hand navigation pane to view all your connected drives.
Look under 'Devices and drives' for a virtual DVD, CD, or BD-ROM drive that contains the Office installation files.
Right-click the virtual drive and select 'Eject' from the context menu. The drive will disappear, freeing up the IMG file.
Navigate back to the folder containing ProPlus2021Retail.img and attempt to move or rename it again.
Temporarily Disable Antivirus Protection
Use this method if the IMG file is not mounted, but your antivirus software is actively scanning or locking the file.
Skip Complex Installations with WPS Office
Avoid the hassle of managing large IMG files, dealing with virtual drives, and troubleshooting complex Microsoft Office installations. WPS Office is a lightweight, robust, and entirely free alternative that installs in seconds and offers excellent compatibility with all your existing documents.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS website and download the lightweight installation file.
- 2. Run the Setup: Double-click the downloaded file to launch the rapid installation wizard.
- 3. Start Creating: Open WPS Office and instantly access your Writer, Spreadsheet, and Presentation tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if the ProPlus2021Retail.img file is mounted in File Explorer?
To check if the file is mounted, open File Explorer and click on 'This PC'. Look at the 'Devices and drives' section. If the IMG file is currently mounted, it will appear as a new CD, DVD, or BD-ROM drive with the Office logo or installation setup files visible inside it.
Can I safely delete the ProPlus2021Retail.img file after installing Office?
Yes. Once Microsoft Office 2021 is fully installed and successfully activated on your computer, the original IMG installation file is no longer required. You can safely delete it to free up disk space or move it to an external drive for backup purposes.
Why does my antivirus lock the IMG installation file?
Antivirus programs are designed to scan new and large files, especially disk image formats like .img or .iso, to ensure they do not contain hidden malware. While the antivirus is performing this background scan, it places a temporary lock on the file, preventing you from moving, renaming, or deleting it.
