Spotify Error 18 Quick Fix Nobody Told You About 🔥

Error 18 Spotify Fix it in 1 minute with this trick ⚡

Many users have reported error code 18 when trying to install the Spotify application on their desktop. The full message reads: “The installer cannot install Spotify because the files it needs to write are being used by another process. Make sure Spotify is not running and try again.”

Error Code 18 on Spotify

This message clearly indicates that the Spotify installer cannot complete the installation because a background process is using the necessary files. Therefore, the solution is simple once we identify the cause.

In this guide, we'll share the best ways to fix error code 18 in the Spotify desktop app. Let's figure it out together! 💡

When does error code 18 occur on Spotify?

This error occurs when the Windows installer detects that the files Spotify wants to modify are already present or in use by another process. It usually happens when trying to reinstall Spotify after uninstallation, as residual files or registry entries often remain.

These residual files or processes can prevent the installation from completing correctly, causing the error. Therefore, it is essential to identify and remove these remnants to install Spotify without problems.

1. Install Spotify from the Microsoft Store

A solution recommended by official Spotify forum moderators is to install the app from the Microsoft Store in safe mode with networking. Follow these steps:

1. Restart your PC and during startup press F8 to access safe mode with networking.
2. Once in safe mode, delete all files related to Spotify using File Explorer.
3. Open the Microsoft Store and download the latest official version of Spotify.

This technique has successfully fixed error 18 for many users. 🚀

2. Close all Spotify-related processes from the Task Manager

To prevent any open process from causing conflict, follow these steps to close them:

1. Open the Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and go to the tab Processes.
2. Find and select any process that says “Spotify”. Right-click and select Finish task.
3. Close the Manager and try installing Spotify again.

3. Cleaning and repairing the Windows registry

Leftovers from uninstalled software can leave entries in the Windows registry that block installation. Use a reliable tool like CCleaner To repair the registry:

1. Download and install CCleaner on your PC.
2. Open the application and select the option Record to scan for errors.
3. Click on Looking for trouble and wait for it to finish.
4. Select Fix selected problems to correct errors detected.
5. Restart your computer and try installing Spotify again.

4. System cleanup to remove temporary files

Windows 10 includes a cleanup feature that removes residual temporary files. This can help unlock the installation.

1. Access to Configuration and then to System.
2. Select Storage and then press on Free up space.
3. Wait for the temporary files to be scanned and then select to delete them.

This cleanup can free up space and resolve conflicts, making Spotify installation easier. ✨

5. Check if the Steam client is running

Spotify and Steam use similar technologies to protect their applications, and sometimes the Spotify installer confuses Steam with Spotify, thus blocking the installation.

To avoid conflicts:

1. Check the notifications area to see if Steam is active.
2. If it's not visible, open Task Manager and look for Steam processes.
3. End any related processes and then try installing Spotify again.

Closing Steam can easily unlock the Spotify installation. 🔒

6. Delete temporary data from the Spotify application

Removing residual application data can resolve error 18. Here's how:

1. Press the Windows key + R simultaneously to open the dialog box Execute.
2. Writes %appdata% and press Enter.
3. A folder with temporary files will open. Select them all and delete them.
4. Empty the Recycle Bin to make sure they are completely deleted.
5. Restart your PC and try installing Spotify again.

7. Starting and exiting safe mode

Although it may seem strange, some users have solved the error by starting the computer in safe mode and then restarting normally:

1. Press the keys Windows + R, writes msconfig and press Enter.
2. On the tab Start, check the box Safe Start and apply the changes.
3. Restart your computer to boot into safe mode.
4. Once in safe mode, repeat the process but this time uncheck the box. Safe Start and restart normally.
5. Try installing Spotify after the restart.

8. Install Spotify in safe mode

If you're still having trouble, try installing Spotify directly in safe mode. This mode disables background apps and processes that might be causing conflicts.

Follow the steps in the previous method to access safe mode, and then run the Spotify installer. The installation should complete without error.

Remember that error code 18 isn't serious, and sometimes a simple restart can fix it. If you have any questions or need help, leave us a comment! 🎧👇