TMP files locked in file server and not released until reboot

Hi,

We are experiencing an issue on our file server where several .tmp files are being created and remain locked, even after the related applications are closed. These files cannot be deleted or moved, and the only way to release them is by rebooting the server.

Details:

• OS: Windows Server 2016 Standard
• Files are located in shared folders, commonly in subfolders like \CONSULTA\username.

Extensions: .tmp

The problem affects files such as:

The locked files are often created during editing or accessing documents (e.g., DOCX, PDF).

We are using Microsoft Office and digital document tools commonly found in legal environments (e.g., PDF tools, google driver).

What we tried:

Attempted to delete the .tmp files manually – access denied.

Used Process Explorer to identify which processes are locking the files.

Found that the files are often locked by Office applications (e.g., WINWORD.EXE) or other processes that should have released them when closed.

Request:

Is there any known issue with file locks for .tmp files in recent Windows Server updates?

Is there a recommended way to force release or clean up .tmp files without rebooting the server?

Any suggestions to prevent .tmp files from being left behind or locked?

Thank you in advanceHi,

We are experiencing an issue on our file server where several .tmp files are being created and remain locked, even after the related applications are closed. These files cannot be deleted or moved, and the only way to release them is by rebooting the server.

Details:

OS: Windows Server 2016 Standard

Files are located in shared folders, commonly in subfolders like \CONSULTA\username.

Extensions: .tmp

The problem affects files such as:

The locked files are often created during editing or accessing documents (e.g., DOCX, PDF).

We are using Microsoft Office and digital document tools commonly found in legal environments (e.g., PDF tools, google driver).

What we tried:

Attempted to delete the .tmp files manually – access denied.

Used Process Explorer to identify which processes are locking the files.

Found that the files are often locked by Office applications (e.g., WINWORD.EXE) or other processes that should have released them when closed.

Request:

Is there any known issue with file locks for .tmp files in recent Windows Server updates?

Is there a recommended way to force release or clean up .tmp files without rebooting the server?

Any suggestions to prevent .tmp files from being left behind or locked?

Thank you in advance