---
id: external-drives.eject-fails-files-still-in-use
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/external-drives/eject-fails-files-still-in-use
category: "External drives"
subcategory: "Ejecting and reconnecting"
question: "Why does ejecting fail with \"Files still in use\"?"
alt_questions:
  - "Can't eject fast drive files in use"
  - "The disk wasn't ejected because one or more programs may be using it"
  - "Eject failed Storage Studio"
  - "What is using my external drive?"
  - "drive won't eject mac storage studio"
  - "How do I find which app is using my drive?"
short_answer: "An app still has a file open on the drive. Storage Studio lists what's holding it — often a moved app, Xcode, Docker, a Terminal window in a folder on the drive, or Spotlight indexing. Quit those and eject again."
tags: ["eject", "files in use", "troubleshooting"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/external-drives/how-do-i-safely-eject-my-fast-drive", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/external-drives/what-happens-if-i-unplug-without-ejecting", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/external-drives/how-do-i-remount-my-fast-drive"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# Why does ejecting fail with "Files still in use"?

Something still has a file open on the drive. When an eject fails, Storage Studio lists the apps still using it so you know what to quit.

Common culprits:

- An app you moved to the drive that's still open.
- Xcode, Docker or another developer tool using files there.
- A Terminal window whose current folder is on the drive.
- Spotlight indexing the drive right after you connected it.

Quit or move out of those, wait a moment, and click **Eject fast drive** again. Avoid pulling the cable while files are open.