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Thunderbird wont open because "it is already running"

  • 2 replies
  • 2 have this problem
  • 2 views
  • Last reply by billseldon

billseldon
billseldon
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While trying to load my old Thunderbird profile data I must have entered an incorrect profile address, causing it not to load. I tried to correct this by deleting the new installation and reinstalling a new download, but now get the message: "Thunderbird is already running, but is not responding. To open a new window, you must first close the existing Thunderbird process, or restart your system." Task Manager shows no other instance running, so I have restarted the computer - same message. I have also closed the computer, waited and then restarted. Same message displayed. Please - Any suggestions as to how to overcome this problem?

While trying to load my old Thunderbird profile data I must have entered an incorrect profile address, causing it not to load. I tried to correct this by deleting the new installation and reinstalling a new download, but now get the message: "Thunderbird is already running, but is not responding. To open a new window, you must first close the existing Thunderbird process, or restart your system." Task Manager shows no other instance running, so I have restarted the computer - same message. I have also closed the computer, waited and then restarted. Same message displayed. Please - Any suggestions as to how to overcome this problem?

Chosen solution

Thanks, It may have been locked, but I had no idea how to unlock. However, I downloaded and applied the latest release. This enabled me to get into the Profile file and correct the address and Thunderbird now working. I guess the download did the unlocking, but it is a mystery as to how previous delete Thunderbird, then Download a fresh version and apply again did not also do this?

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All Replies (2)

Zenos
Zenos
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You probably have a lock file.

http://kb.mozillazine.org/Profile_in_use

billseldon
billseldon Question owner
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Chosen Solution

Thanks, It may have been locked, but I had no idea how to unlock. However, I downloaded and applied the latest release. This enabled me to get into the Profile file and correct the address and Thunderbird now working. I guess the download did the unlocking, but it is a mystery as to how previous delete Thunderbird, then Download a fresh version and apply again did not also do this?