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Understanding FSLogix Error 0x00000020

A detailed guide to troubleshooting and resolving FSLogix profile access issues

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Key Highlights

  • File Locking and Profile Access Conflict: The error indicates that the file is in use by another process, often due to lingering or locked VHDX files.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Comprehensive methods include identifying active sessions, checking registry entries, ensuring sufficient storage, and updating FSLogix.
  • Maintenance and Cleanup: Regular cleaning of corrupt profiles and dismounting lingering profiles are critical to avoid locking issues.

Understanding Error 0x00000020

FSLogix error code 0x00000020 is typically encountered when the process cannot access a file because it is already being used by another process. In the context of FSLogix, this usually refers to locking issues on the user profile VHDX file. This behavior is common in environments such as virtual desktops where user profiles are mounted and dismounted dynamically.

The error may occur due to several reasons:

  • Lingering or locked VHDX files from an unexpected or incomplete logoff session.
  • Insufficient storage space or misconfigured storage settings, especially in cloud storage contexts like Azure File Shares.
  • Corruption of user profiles or registry settings associated with FSLogix.
  • Version-specific bugs where older FSLogix components can fail to clear session data properly during a computer startup.

Detailed Troubleshooting Steps

1. Identify and Dismount Lingering Profiles

When a profile remains mounted or its VHDX file is not properly dismounted after a user logs off, it can lead to this error. It is crucial to check for any active sessions or lingering file locks.

Steps:

  • Confirm that no other session is using the same user profile. FSLogix generally enforces exclusive access to the mounted profile, so multiple simultaneous sessions for one user could cause conflicts.
  • Use tools such as the FSLogix Profile Status Tool (typically located at C:\Program Files\FSLogix\Apps) to check the current status of user profiles.
  • If you find that a profile persists after logoff or remains locked, consider using a PowerShell script to dismount the lingering FSLogix profiles. For example: 
    
# Example PowerShell command to dismount lingering profiles
.\Clean-LingeringFSLogixProfiles.ps1 -Mode "React" -ProfileStorageAccount "storageaccountname" -ProfileShare "profileshare" -StorageAccountResourceGroupName "resourcegroupname"

2. Check Active Sessions and File Locking

The error may stem from the VHDX file being locked by another process. It is important to ensure that the user profile is not active in any other session.

Steps:

  • Inspect the file system and network share to identify if the user's VHDX is currently accessed by another session.
  • Utilize the "Computer Management" console to check open files: navigate to Shared Folders > Open Files to locate any locks on the FSLogix profile files.
  • If a profile is found to be locked, try manually releasing or forcefully dismounting it after verifying that no active session requires it.

3. Review and Update FSLogix Components

Outdated versions of FSLogix may have known issues that lead to error 0x00000020. Ensure that you are running the latest version, as updates often include bug fixes and improvements in session handling.

Suggestions:

  • Check the official FSLogix release notes and upgrade to the latest version if necessary.
  • Updating components often clears lingering session information and improves profile load performance.

4. Check Registry Entries and Profile Corruption

Corrupted registry entries or file structures within FSLogix can prevent the profile from attaching correctly. It may be necessary to clear out corrupted profile data.

Steps:

  • Examine the registry at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\FSLogix\Profiles for any corrupt or unwanted entries.
  • If corrupt entries are found, delete them and allow FSLogix to recreate them upon the next user logon.
  • Additionally, remove any corrupt profile files from the designated VHDLocations on your storage system.

5. Verify Storage Allocation and Accessibility

Adequate storage allocation on FSLogix containers is critical. If you are using a cloud storage solution such as Azure File Share, ensure that there is enough free space for profile files.

Steps:

  • Check the storage container's allocated space and increase it if necessary.
  • Confirm that the FSLogix file path is correct and that permissions are properly set, particularly in shared storage environments.
  • Monitor for disk space issues that could lead to profiles not attaching correctly.

Troubleshooting Table

Troubleshooting Step Description Recommended Action
Dismount Lingering Profiles Identify and dismount any lingering VHDX profiles that remain locked after logoff. Run the FSLogix Profile Status Tool or a PowerShell script to clear active locks.
Check Active Sessions Ensure that no other session has locked the file. Use Windows “Shared Folders” tool or equivalent to verify open file handles.
Update FSLogix Components Ensure system is running the latest version of FSLogix software. Review release notes and update to the most current version available.
Review Registry and Profile Data Examine filesystem and registry for corrupt profile entries. Clean up invalid registry keys at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\FSLogix\Profiles and delete affected VHDX files.
Ensure Sufficient Storage Make sure that the storage for FSLogix profiles is not running low. Verify storage allocations and permissions for Azure File Shares or on-premises storage solutions.

Additional Considerations

Aside from the primary troubleshooting steps discussed, there are other considerations that can help in diagnosing this error:

  • Examine Logs: Check the FSLogix logs (often located in C:\Program Files\FSLogix\Apps\Logs) for detailed error messages. Additionally, review Windows Event Logs for any anomalies related to the profile service.
  • File Access Issues: Problems with network connectivity or file permissions can lead to unexpected file locks. Ensure that the FSLogix service account has proper access rights to the storage container.
  • System Reboot: In cases of persistent file locks, a system reboot during off-hours can help release locked resources, clearing the path for a successful profile attach on the next logon.
  • Community and Support Channels: If the error persists after applying troubleshooting steps, consider reaching out to community forums such as Microsoft Q&A or the FSLogix subreddit for further insights.

Practical Implementation

Using PowerShell for Profile Cleanup

Many administrators use PowerShell scripts to clear lingering profiles automatically. Below is an example script snippet that is commonly used: 


# Example PowerShell script to clean up lingering FSLogix profiles
# This script identifies mounted FSLogix VHDX files and dismounts them if no active session is detected.

# Retrieve list of mounted profiles
$profiles = Get-ChildItem -Path "C:\FSLogix\Profiles\*"
foreach ($profile in $profiles) {
    # Check if the profile is in use by examining file locks or open sessions
    if (-not (Test-Path $profile.FullName -PathType Leaf)) {
        Write-Output "Dismounting profile: $($profile.Name)"
        # Command to dismount the profile would go here
    }
}

This code block is an illustration. Actual implementations may require customizations based on your environment’s specifics.

References

Related Queries for Further Exploration


Last updated March 20, 2025
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