Word is opening multiple sessions

[jmt356]

When opening Word files, Word is launching a new session of Word, even though Word is already opened and running. When I close the files, Word remains open with a gray background, even though there are other Word documents open. When I try to close the session of Word that has no files open and only a gray background, a window displays that states, "This file is in use by another application or user ... Normal.dotm."

When I try to open the files, I get an error that states that the document is open and locked for editing, but it is not.

What is causing this strange behavior and how do I stop it?

[Charles Kenyon]

Do not try to open multiple documents at once. Open them sequentially. Best is to use File>Open from within Word.

Version of Word you are using?
How are you opening them?

[jmt356]

Greetings Charles, I am opening one file at a time from within File Explorer. I am using MS Office Professional Plus 2016.

[HansV]

Opening multiple Word documents from File Explorer at once often causes multiple instances of Word to start.
It's safer to start Word, then open multiple documents at once from within Word.

[jmt356]

I am only opening one file at once from File Explorer.

This only occurs when the file originated from another user. It opens up a new Word session and asks if I trust the document. Even when I trust the document, when I reopen it from File Explorer, a new session of Word is launched.

[HansV]

So it's best to open all documents from within Word.

[Charles Kenyon]

I agree with Hans. That is why my advice in my first reply was: "Best is to use File>Open from within Word."

Also, directly opening attachments to email is a very good way to lose work.
http://www.gmayor.com/outlook_attachments.htm

Further, Word does recognize files from external sources as being a threat.