Copying files...files with too long of name... how do I work around?

[mlchris2]

I am copying files from one disk to another. During the copy process, I get an error:

"Cannont move folder; The filename or extension is too long"

Do any of you know of any utilities or work arounds for this? It would be greatly appriciated.



Mark C.
Network Admin - Digital Draw Network

 

[Xaqte]

It would help us out it you told us how you are copying the files...
drag & drop?
command/batch file?

Take your time & let us know the details so we can help you better.

X

 

[mlchris2]

sorry X...

I am performing a copy of a folder (which contains folders and files) using the right-click Copy command. I am then peforming a right-click Paste on another folder on another disk.

Mark C.
Network Admin - Digital Draw Network

 

[Xaqte]

Not looking for an easy way out, but could you compress the folder before moving it?

If this wouldn't work for you, would you be opposed to doing this via the command line, batch file or other scripting method?

 

[mlchris2]

thanks for the advice....

I ended up not having to copy that directory after all.

Got to love the world of IT!!!!!!

Mark C.
Network Admin - Digital Draw Network

 

[NortonES2]

You could have used the 8.3 filename, you can find this by running dir /x at the command prompt.

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If it doesn't leak oil it must be empty!!

 

[TheLad]

Have this problem all of the time. The only way to really get around it is to rename the file/containing folders to shorter names. I believe that it is caused by a 255 character limit and this is an OS restriction that cannot be changed. There is no real reason to have an essay as a file/directory name (or so I keep telling the customer!)

It might be worth getting these files renamed anyway because my experience is that these files might not get backed up by your backup software for the same reason. It might be worth checking this.

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"It's true, its damn true!"
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[itsp1965]

Guys, I have ran into this plenty of times at some customers. As a workaround, I use the old DOS SUBST command to substitute a drive with the long pathname. From there I am able to navigate and manipulate the files accordingly.