HoboCopy - Copy Locked Files (Updated Versions 2024, 2025)

Introduction to HoboCopy

One of the essential needs for daily backups is the ability to work with files that are actively being used by other applications or the operating system itself. A common error encountered is: “The action can't be completed because the file is open in System. Close the file and try again.” This leads to the question: how can you copy these files for backup purposes? HoboCopy offers a swift and effective solution to this problem.

Evolution of File Copying with HoboCopy

In the past, copying such files required the use of the Volume Shadow Service (VSS), a service that creates a snapshot of the hard drive. This method is both time-consuming and not user-friendly for the average person. HoboCopy simplifies the process of copying "locked" files.

How to Use HoboCopy

HoboCopy operates via the command line, requiring users to manually enter the source and destination paths. The command-line syntax typically looks like this:

Command Syntax:
HoboCopy D:\Windows\System32\config\SAM D:\Backup\MrP\

For instance, the example above copies the SAM file from D:\Windows\System32\config to the MrP folder in the D:\Backup directory.

Graphical User Interface (Hobo GUI)

For less technical users, HoboCopy offers a user-friendly interface known as Hobo GUI. You can simply select the source and destination paths for copying "locked" files. After specifying the paths, just press the BACKUP button to initiate the copying process.

HoboCopy - Copy Locked Files Interface HoboCopy - Control Panel

Installation Notes

With the command line version, HoboCopy does not require installation. However, for Hobo GUI, you will need to install it first. If you prefer not to install Hobo GUI, simply extract the Hobo GUI installer with 7zip and move the contents to the same directory as HoboCopy.

HoboCopy - Installation Steps

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is HoboCopy? - HoboCopy is a tool designed for copying files that are in use or "locked" by applications.
  2. Is HoboCopy easy to use? - Yes, HoboCopy offers both command line and GUI interfaces, making it accessible for all users.
  3. Do I need to install HoboCopy? - The command line version does not need installation; however, the GUI version does require installation.
  4. What if I encounter an error during copying? - Ensure that the paths are correctly entered and that you have the necessary permissions to access those files.

For more enhanced backup and file recovery needs, check out the following tools:

Tool Description
LockHunter Deletes locked files
FastCopy Super fast file copying
AngelFTP Backup FTP files
DataRecovery Recover deleted files
Undelete SD card Recover deleted files
FileWing Recover lost files
AVI Joiner Join AVI files
Sign up and earn $1000 a day ⋙

Leave a Comment

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

How to regain access to hard drive, fix error of not being able to open hard drive

In this article, we will guide you how to regain access to your hard drive when it fails. Let's follow along!

How to use dental floss

How to use dental floss

Dental floss is a common tool for cleaning teeth, however, not everyone knows how to use it properly. Below are instructions on how to use dental floss to clean teeth effectively.

How to gain muscle according to experts

How to gain muscle according to experts

Building muscle takes time and the right training, but its something anyone can do. Heres how to build muscle, according to experts.

The Best Diets for Heart Health

The Best Diets for Heart Health

In addition to regular exercise and not smoking, diet is one of the best ways to protect your heart. Here are the best diets for heart health.

How to cure insomnia for pregnant women in the last 3 months

How to cure insomnia for pregnant women in the last 3 months

The third trimester is often the most difficult time to sleep during pregnancy. Here are some ways to treat insomnia in the third trimester.

Scientifically Proven Ways to Automatically Burn Calories

Scientifically Proven Ways to Automatically Burn Calories

There are many ways to lose weight without changing anything in your diet. Here are some scientifically proven automatic weight loss or calorie-burning methods that anyone can use.

All about iOS 26

All about iOS 26

Apple has introduced iOS 26 – a major update with a brand new frosted glass design, smarter experiences, and improvements to familiar apps.

Yoga exercises to treat insomnia

Yoga exercises to treat insomnia

Yoga can provide many health benefits, including better sleep. Because yoga can be relaxing and restorative, its a great way to beat insomnia after a busy day.

What is the flower of the other shore? Meaning and legend of the flower of the other shore

What is the flower of the other shore? Meaning and legend of the flower of the other shore

The flower of the other shore is a unique flower, carrying many unique meanings. So what is the flower of the other shore, is the flower of the other shore real, what is the meaning and legend of the flower of the other shore?

Healthy snacks that help you lose weight

Healthy snacks that help you lose weight

Craving for snacks but afraid of gaining weight? Dont worry, lets explore together many types of weight loss snacks that are high in fiber, low in calories without making you try to starve yourself.

What to do when you have trouble sleeping?

What to do when you have trouble sleeping?

Prioritizing a consistent sleep schedule and evening routine can help improve the quality of your sleep. Heres what you need to know to stop tossing and turning at night.

How to add a printer to Windows 10

How to add a printer to Windows 10

Adding a printer to Windows 10 is simple, although the process for wired devices will be different than for wireless devices.

The most commonly deficient nutrients in the diet

The most commonly deficient nutrients in the diet

Diet is important to our health. Yet most of our meals are lacking in these six important nutrients.

How to get beautiful nails quickly

How to get beautiful nails quickly

You want to have a beautiful, shiny, healthy nail quickly. The simple tips for beautiful nails below will be useful for you.

The best laptops for students in 2025

The best laptops for students in 2025

Students need a specific type of laptop for their studies. It should not only be powerful enough to perform well in their chosen major, but also compact and light enough to carry around all day.