The Windows “Filename Too Long” error (0x800700CE) occurs when trying to rename, move, or access files with extremely long paths. This limitation stems from Windows’ legacy MAX_PATH restriction of 260 characters. While frustrating, there are several ways to resolve this issue and work with long filenames.
Enable Long Path Support in Windows
The most effective solution is to enable built-in long path support in Windows 10 and 11:
Step 1: Open the Group Policy Editor by pressing Windows + R, typing gpedit.msc, and pressing Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Filesystem.
Step 3: Double-click on “Enable Win32 long paths”.
Step 4: Select “Enabled” and click Apply, then OK.
Step 5: Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
This allows Windows to handle paths up to 32,767 characters long, resolving most filename length issues.
Use PowerShell to Manage Long Paths
PowerShell can bypass the 260 character limit without system changes:
Step 1: Open PowerShell as administrator.
Step 2: Use the cd command with the \\?\ prefix to navigate to the problematic directory:
cd "\\?\C:\Very\Long\Path\Here"
Step 3: Use PowerShell commands like Move-Item, Rename-Item, or Remove-Item to manage files:
Rename-Item "\\?\C:\Very\Long\Path\Here\VeryLongFileName.txt" "NewName.txt"
This method works for individual file operations but doesn’t permanently solve the issue system-wide.
Shorten File Paths
If enabling long path support isn’t possible, consider restructuring your file organization:
Step 1: Move files closer to the root directory to reduce path length.
Step 2: Rename folders and files to use shorter names.
Step 3: Use file compression to combine multiple files into a single archive with a shorter path.
While this approach requires more effort, it ensures compatibility with applications that don’t support long paths.
Map a Network Drive
Creating a mapped network drive can sometimes circumvent path length issues:
Step 1: Open File Explorer and click “This PC”.
Step 2: Click on “Map network drive” in the Computer tab.
Step 3: Choose a drive letter and enter the path to the folder containing long filenames.
Step 4: Check “Reconnect at sign-in” if desired, then click Finish.
This method creates a shorter path to access the files, potentially resolving the error.
Use Third-Party File Management Tools
Some third-party file managers are designed to handle long paths:
- Total Commander
- Directory Opus
- Long Path Tool
These applications can often rename, move, or delete files with long paths when Windows Explorer fails.
The “Filename Too Long” error highlights the complexities of Windows’ file system legacy. While Microsoft has improved long path support in recent Windows versions, many applications still adhere to the old limitations. By using these methods, you can work around the restrictions and manage your files more effectively.