Can't open the catalog, because it seems to be write-protected

Forum|Forum|8 years ago
February 2, 2018
3 replies
4984 views

After the Windows of my computer crashed and was reinstalled, all my data was still intact. I reinstalled Lightroom Classic CC and when I go to the lrcat file to open the catalog, I get a message that the catalog cannot be opened because it is protected against writing.

How can I possibly unlock the catalog?

Thanks, Guy

This topic has been closed for replies.

Correct answer guycordeel

I have restored the LRCAT file and the preview file from a backup and now it works! Thanks for your help. Best regards, Guy

Rob_Cullen

Community Expert

Seems to be write protected

There is also the possibility (as you have not quoted any error message) that the Catalog file is 'Locked' by Lightroom. Happens any time a computer crashes with Lightroom running!

I refer you to this help page for this possibility-

Lightroom catalog cannot be opened

Regards. My System: Windows-11, Lightroom-Classic 15.3, Photoshop 27.5, ACR 18.3, Lightroom 9.3, Lr-iOS 10.4.0, Bridge 16.0.3 .

G

guycordeelAuthorCorrect answer

Participant

I have restored the LRCAT file and the preview file from a backup and now it works! Thanks for your help. Best regards, Guy

JP Hess

Inspiring

Open the folder that contains your Lightroom catalog, right-click on the catalog and choose Properties. Make sure there isn't a checkmark in the read-only box.