"Another instance is already running": 8 Quick Fixes 🚀

Errors in Windows can be of two types: those that do not cause major problems and those that prevent users from logging in. These include messages such as “Another instance is already running” can prevent you from opening an app. 😟

This error usually appears when a process or software is already running in the background. To resolve it, you need to locate and close the running process causing the conflict. Below, we show you the best solutions for this problem. ⚙️

1. Remove Ad-Aware Web Companion to fix the error

If you receive the error message “Another instance is already running” every time you turn on your computer, Ad-Aware Web Companion is most likely causing the problem.

Ad-Aware is an anti-spyware tool, but some users have confirmed that removing this component resolves the conflict. To do so, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features, search for “Ad-Aware Web Companion” and uninstall it. Restart your PC and the error should disappear.

2. Find and close the process from Task Manager

If the error appears when opening a specific software program, make sure you close it properly. Sometimes, even if you don't see them open, some programs remain active in the background.

Open the Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and check the processes tab. If you see the conflicting software running, select it and click End task. This should release the locked instance.

3. Restart your computer to resolve temporary conflicts

If the error persists after closing processes, a simple restart may resolve it. This eliminates stuck processes and clears the system's temporary memory.

To restart, open the Start menu, select the Power button, and click Reboot. It's the quick fix many overlook! 🔄

4. Reinstall problematic software to fix corrupted files

If closing processes didn't solve the problem, reinstalling the program may be the key. This fixes corrupted files or conflicting settings.

Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features, uninstall the problematic software and then perform a clean install from a trusted source. This should permanently remove the error. ✔️

5. Create a new user account in Windows

If you can't identify the process or program causing the conflict, creating a new user account in Windows can isolate the problem. This gives you a clean profile, free of legacy conflicts.

Follow a step-by-step guide to create a local or Microsoft account from Settings > Accounts > Family & other users. Sign in with the new account to see if the error persists.

6. Perform a clean boot to rule out software conflicts

He Clean boot starts Windows Only use essential programs, disabling third-party services and apps that may be causing conflicts. This helps identify if any app is causing the error. “Another instance is already running”.

1. Press Windows + R, writes msconfig.msc and press Enter.

2. Go to the tab Services, check the box Hide all Microsoft services and click on Disable all.

3. Then, open Task Manager, go to the tab Start, right click on the applications and select Disable.

4. Restart your PC and check if the error disappears when you run the program.

7. Run SFC and DISM commands to repair system files

Corrupted system files can cause multiple errors, including the message “Another instance is already running”. Use the SFC tools and DISM can repair these files automatically.

1. Search cmd On the Start menu, right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.

2. Type and run the following command to scan and repair corrupted files:

sfc /scannow

3. If SFC reports errors it cannot fix, run these commands one by one to repair the system image:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

4. Restart your computer to apply the fixes.

8. Download all pending Windows updates

Sometimes, the error may be due to glitches or bugs in the operating system. Keeping Windows up to date can fix these issues and improve overall stability.

Open the application Configuration and select Windows Update. In Windows 10, it is in Update and security.
Click on Check for updates and wait for any pending updates to be downloaded and installed.

These are the most effective solutions to eliminate the error “Another instance is already running” on Windows. Do you know another method? Share it with us in the comments! 💬👇