Workspace or data source is read-only

Error Message

Attempts to open a file geodatabase copy in ArcMap fail after using Windows tools to copy and paste the file geodatabase to a new shared network location. The following error message is returned:

Error:   
Failed to connect to database.
Workspace or data source is read only.
Workspace or data source is read only. [GDB_Items]
Workspace or data source is read only. [GDB_ItemRelationships]
Workspace or data source is read only.

Cause

• The user lacks the appropriate permissions to access the file geodatabase.
• The file geodatabase is compressed when the file is copied using Windows tools.

Solution or Workaround

Select one of the options below to resolve the issue depending on the cause.

Check the permissions of the file geodatabase

Check the file geodatabase for the appropriate permissions to access the file. Refer to ArcMap: Warning: Check to see that you have the appropriate permissions for more information.

Use the Copy tool in ArcToolbox

In ArcMap, use the Copy tool in the Data Management Tools toolbox found in the General toolset. Refer to ArcMap: Copying a geodatabase using the Copy tool for more information.