proper-lockfile
Inter-process and inter-machine lockfile utility for Node.js.
- Status
- UnmaintainedNo commits in 2038 days.
- Last checked
- Aging · Sep 2, 2026
- License
- Open source
- Pricing
- Free tier · from $0
What it is
Proper-lockfile is a robust lockfile utility designed to ensure consistent file access across multiple processes or machines, making it essential for distributed systems and concurrent operations in Node.js environments.
Proper-lockfile stands out as a lightweight, yet powerful utility specifically designed for Node.js developers to manage concurrent operations and ensure data consistency across processes and machines.
When it fits — and when it doesn’t
A good fit for
Developers working on Node.js projects that require managing concurrent access to shared resources.
Teams building distributed systems where consistency and reliability are critical.
Projects needing a robust solution for preventing race conditions in file operations.
Look elsewhere if
Applications that do not involve multi-process or distributed environments.
Scenarios where the overhead of lockfile management is undesirable.
Known weaknesses
Each one links to the public issue, changelog or docs page it came from, where we have one.
- 01
Limited language support
Proper-lockfile is primarily designed for Node.js environments, limiting its utility in other programming languages.
- 02
Complex setup process
Integrating proper-lockfile into existing projects requires significant configuration and may disrupt current workflows.
- 03
Performance overhead for small-scale applications
The robustness of proper-lockfile introduces additional processing time, which might be noticeable in less demanding or smaller scale applications.
What it does well
Ensures consistent file access across multiple processes or machines.
Built for Node.js environments to manage concurrent operations effectively.
Provides a reliable mechanism to prevent race conditions and data corruption.
Pricing
- Free tier
- YesOpen source — free to use
- Paid from
- $0
- Model
- Flat rate
- Enterprise plan
- No
Pricing not independently confirmed — check the vendor’s page.
Performance benchmarks
How Fast Is It?
Set up proper-lockfile
Setup steps, common gotchas and what to check after 30 days.