Why do I get an 'Unable to continue Error 201" when updating MATLAB?

When updating MATLAB, I receive an error message saying "Unable to continue". What causes this, and how can I resolve it? 

Answer 1

[MathWorks Support Team]

This error is typically caused by a locked file - a file that is currently open or in use by another program - preventing MATLAB from completing the update. The error message appears when the installer cannot access or modify a file needed for the update.

1. Close MATLAB and All Related Programs
   Ensure MATLAB is fully closed, along with any associated tools such as Simulink, MATLAB Drive, or Add-On Explorer. Also, close any external applications that may be using MATLAB files (e.g., text editors, antivirus programs, or file sync tools).
2. Use Task Manager or Activity Monitor
   • On Windows, open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and look for any processes related to MATLAB. End those tasks if necessary.
   • On macOS, open Activity Monitor and do the same.
   • On Linux: Use your desktop environment’s System Monitor (e.g., System Monitor in Ubuntu) or the terminal to find and stop MATLAB-related processes:
     • To list all MATLAB-related processes:
       ps aux | grep -i matlab
     • To kill a process by PID (replace PID with the actual number shown):
       kill -9 PID
     NOTE: Be cautious when killing processes—only stop ones that are clearly associated with MATLAB.
3. Restart Your Computer
   • If you're unsure which program might be locking the file, restarting your computer can often resolve the issue by releasing any file locks.

[Bradley Stiritz]

At least on WIndows, could Matlab please report the name of the locked file? It would also be really helpful if Matlab could report which program currently holds the lock?