A Synology Drive file is locked or read-only. Who can unlock it?

Applies to: Drive web portal and supported Drive Client file-locking features.

Work through these checks

1. Identify where the message appears. Look for the Drive lock indicator in the web portal or synced folder. Confirm the account signed in and ask whether another colleague is currently editing the file.
2. If you own the lock, save and close the editing app. Right-click the file in a supported Drive Client and use Synology Drive > Unlock file, or use the equivalent web control.
3. If someone else owns it, use Request Unlock where offered or contact the owner or manager. Keep a separate copy of urgent unsaved work without overwriting the shared original.
4. If no Drive lock exists, close applications using the file and inspect the client log. A local file handle, insufficient permissions or a read-only share needs its own diagnosis; changing the Drive lock will not correct it.

Confirm the result

The intended editor can modify a test copy, sync it and see the expected result from a second authorised device.

If you need help

Include these details in your ticket: Drive versions, where the message appears, lock owner shown and whether the file opens read-only in the web portal.

Updated 261107