Long file names causing silent glitches


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elevadu

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I've run into errors with long file names, but never where an error isn't shown. This happens when trying to copy-paste, cut-paste (move), or rename a file within a path in File Explorer that is unusually long and would probably show an error about it in previous versions of Windows. The operation just doesn't happen, and there's no error shown.

Anyone else run into this?

It took me a while to determine the problem.
 

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is this of any help with long file names.

best of luck, Steve ..
 

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I enabled long files names before I posted, to no effect.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell Latitude
I've run into errors with long file names, but never where an error isn't shown. This happens when trying to copy-paste, cut-paste (move), or rename a file within a path in File Explorer that is unusually long and would probably show an error about it in previous versions of Windows. The operation just doesn't happen, and there's no error shown.

Anyone else run into this?

That's normal and not new to Windows 11. For example, if I attempt a file rename in a long path in Windows 10 using Explorer, the file remains with its original name and there's no error.

You have to use the command line or another file manager, such as the 7-Zip file manager .
 

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    Windows 10/11
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That's normal and not new to Windows 11. For example, if I attempt a file rename in a long path in Windows 10 using Explorer, the file remains with its original name and there's no error.

You have to use the command line or another file manager, such as the 7-Zip file manager .

Command line operations like rename or delete or move just gave errors that the file didn't exist even though it showed in a directory listing.

Windows giving no error message for an unsuccessful rename/move is not excusable, it's either a bug or a design flaw. It's counter-intuitive behavior that gives the user wrong impressions or at least doesn't accurately reflect that something didn't work at all as intended.
 

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  • OS
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It looks like you’re trying to file a complaint against Windows. Would you like help with that?
clippy.png
 

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Command line operations like rename or delete or move just gave errors that the file didn't exist even though it showed in a directory listing.
It should work with the command line. Try the command again with the path prefixed with \\?\

If you still get an error, post a screenshot.

Also, as noted in my previous reply, the 7-Zip file manager works with long paths, as do many other file managers.

Unfortunately, Explorer doesn't have full long path support and there's no indication from Microsoft when, or if, it ever will.
 

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