How to Fix “Access Error 3197 the Microsoft Jet Database Engine Stopped the Process”?

You may encounter an error “the Microsoft JET database engine stopped the process because you and another user” when working on the Access database file saved over the shared network drive. Facing this warning message can be bothersome and should be addressed ASAP. Well, this article will discuss the common reasons behind the Microsoft Jet database engine error and the possible fixes to solve it.

the Microsoft jet database engine stopped the process

Also, it mentions a robust Access Repair Tool to fix this error if it has occurred due to DB file corruption.

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What Does the Microsoft Database Engine Stopped the Process Mean?

The below error message typically appears when two users attempt to access or modify the same DB file concurrently, which MS Access doesn’t support.

The Microsoft Jet database engine stopped the process because you and another user are attempting to change the same data at the same time.

When it occurs, it simply means that you can perform any operations within the specific database

Why Microsoft Access Database Engine Error 3197 Occur?

There is no exact known reason for the 3197 error in Access. It may occur due to any of the following causes:

  1. Concurrent Use of Database: When two Access users try to access/modify the same data instantaneously.
  2. Network Interruptions: Network connection issues meanwhile handling the database file that is saved over the network drive.
  3. Locking: If one user has locked a particular record or table and another user trying to access or modify it, then it can lead to this error.
  4. File Corruption: The Access database file itself may become damaged due to various factors like sudden power failure or improper application shutdown.

Methods to Fix Access “The Microsoft Jet Database Engine Stopped The Process Because You And Another User” Error

Consider following the below steps accordingly to tackle this frustrating error.

Method 1- Restart Your Database or Device

The very first trick you can try is to restart your database file. Apart from this, you can even try rebooting your PC and check your internet connection to get the issue fixed with ease.

Restart

Also Read: Fix “The Microsoft Access Database Engine Could Not Find the Object” Error

Method 2- Remove Compiled VBA Code

Remove existing VBA Codes from your access database using the following command:

“C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office\MsAccess.exe /decompile”

“C:\DatabasePath\FileName.mdb”

Note:

If the MS Access .exe file is stored in some different location, so you will need to change the file path mentioned in the above command.

Method 3- Coordinate Access to Fix Microsoft Jet Database Engine Error

It is one of the vital steps that you should take is to ensure that only one user accesses the database at a time. You could implement a system where users communicate when they need access to the database and avoid using it concurrently.

Method 4- Convert  Older MDB Format Files To ACCDB

You must try exporting your currently running Access database to any updated version such as MS Access 2010 or 2013 to rectify the issue and make the .accdb file accessible.

Follow the steps mentioned below in order to convert database file to Access 2013 version:

  • Open up your Access database, tap to the File tab to select backstage view, and then select Save As
  • In the Save As dialog box, choose Access database (*.accdb) from the Save Database As.

Convert  Older MDB Format Files To ACCDB

  • Browse and select the location where you want to keep the newer ACCDB file that needs to be stored.
  • Give an appropriate name for the new database file and click to the OK Option button.
  • After performing this, all the content from Access 2007 will be shifted to Access 2013 or 2010 version; so now you won’t be able to see this file in your older version Access database application.

However, you will not be able to view this file in the older versions of the application before the 2007 edition.

If any incorrectly linked table exists within the database file, it is quite difficult to convert and view access DB in any latest version.

Also Read: Fix Microsoft Access Database Engine Does Not Recognize (Error 3344)?

Method 5- Try Compact and Repair Utility

Database corruption can also cause the Microsoft Access database engine stopped the process because you and another user error. In such a situation, running a built-in Access tool- Compact and Repair can assist you in repairing the corrupt DB file for free.

Here’s how to use this utility:

  • Open the Access app, click on Templates page >> Blank Database.
  • Navigate to File>> click Close >> Database Tools.

Compact and Repair Database

  • After that, choose Compact and Repair Database and choose the faulty database file.
  • Then, click on Compact option.

the Microsoft jet database engine stopped the process

  • Now, a compacted and repaired DB file will be saved in the exact folder where your actual file was stored.

Method 6- Import Data into New Database

You can even try importing all your data from the old database file to a new one to deal with this error. To know how to do this, Click Here.

Method 7- Try Recommended Access Database Repair Tool

If no built-in steps appear to work in rectifying the access ACCDB file, you can opt for an advanced repair solution to repair your access database of any version 2007/2010/2013/2016. For this, the recommended tool is the Access Repair & Recovery Tool.

It is the perfect tool for resolving all types of major and minor corruption issues that occur in the Microsoft Access database. An additional advantage of using this tool is that it helps to retrieve forms, tables, modules, and other components that are encrypted using passwords.

* By clicking the Download button above and installing Stellar Repair for Access (14.8 MB), I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the End User License Agreement and Privacy Policy of this site.

Unique FAQs:

What Is Microsoft Database Engine Used For?

The Microsoft Access Database Engine is used to create Access DB files and import data into a new database.

What Happens If Two Users Attempt to Update the Same Record in A Database?

If two users attempt to update the same record in a database, there is a chance to lose crucial information.

Is Microsoft Access Database Engine Free?

Yes, you can download the Access database engine for free on your PC.

What Is the Latest Version of Access Database Engine?

2021 is the latest Access Database Engine version available as a one-time purchase.

How Do I Repair Microsoft Access Database Engine?

With the help of the Compact and Repair utility, you can repair the Microsoft Access database engine.

Also Read: Fix “Microsoft Access Database Engine Cannot Open Or Write To The File” Error

Closure

The ‘error 3197 the Microsoft Jet database engine stopped the process because you and another user’ usually occurs due to issues with the database file. However, by trying the troubleshooting fixes mentioned above in this blog, it is easy to overcome this situation. For database file corruption, you can use the Access Repair Software. This advanced DIY tool lets you repair & restore DB file data without changing its original formatting.

tip Still having issues? Fix them with this Access repair tool:

This software repairs & restores all ACCDB/MDB objects including tables, reports, queries, records, forms, and indexes along with modules, macros, and other stuffs effectively.

  1. Download Stellar Repair for Access rated Great on Cnet (download starts on this page).
  2. Click Browse and Search option to locate corrupt Access database.
  3. Click Repair button to repair & preview the database objects.

Pearson Willey is a website content writer and long-form content planner. Besides this, he is also an avid reader. Thus he knows very well how to write an engaging content for readers. Writing is like a growing edge for him. He loves exploring his knowledge on MS Access & sharing tech blogs.