I have an Access Application built with two users on separate desktops. each has a copy of the app on their desktop with a single back end (split) database containing the tables in a separate folder on the first (host) PC. I have had no problem with this until last week. Now, the host PC works fine, but the second PC returns the message "The microsoft Access database engine cannot open or write to the file (back end database name & location). It is already opened exclusively by another user or you need permission to view or write its data". Nothing has changed to my knowledge. But this seems to indicate to me that the host PC is somehow in exclusive mode. Is there a setting I am missing in Microsoft or Access securities? Is there a new setting in forms? I am Stumped. Help! lakecanters1@gmail.com