The file path is too long when I download

If the file path is too long or you get an error when opening the download, it’s because Windows has a limit on file path length. By default, Windows only allows paths up to 256 characters long.

Solutions for Long File Paths

Here are a few ways to resolve issues caused by long file paths:

• Shorten long titles: When downloading multiple files, a checkbox labeled Shorten long titles will appear. Simply check this box to automatically shorten file names.

• Extract Closer to the Root Directory:To avoid long file path issues, save and extract downloaded files (especially .zip archives) closer to your hard drive’s root. For example, instead of:

C:\Users\YourName\Documents\Downloads\Software\Application_Files\Installer_Package\Product_Name_Version_1.0.zip

try:

C:\Downloads\Product_Name_Version_1.0.zip

• Use a File Compression Utility: Tools like 7-Zip (https://www.7-zip.org/) handle compressed files well, including those with long paths. These utilities often bypass Windows’ path length limits during extraction.
• Manually Shorten File Paths (Admin Tip): If you’re an admin, you can fix issues by manually shortening file and folder names. Go to the Home folder and select “Expand All.” Folders with problems show red triangles. Rename the folder first, then rename files inside until the red triangles disappear.

Extracting .Zip Files in Windows (Closer to the Root)

To extract a .zip file closer to the root directory and avoid path length issues, follow these steps:

1. Save the .zip file directly to a location like C: or C:\Downloads (create a Downloads folder if you don't have one there). Avoid deeply nested folders.
2. Right-click on the downloaded .zip file.
3. Select "Extract All..." This will open the Extraction Wizard.
4. Click "Next".
5. On the "Select a Destination and Extract Files" screen, click "Browse...".
6. Navigate to a location close to the root, such as C: or C:\Downloads.
7. Click "Make New Folder" (if you want to create a dedicated folder for the extracted files). You might name it something concise like IDAutomation_Fonts or simply MyExtractedFiles.
8. Click "OK" to confirm the new folder's location. The "Files will be extracted to this folder" path should now be much shorter (e.g., C:\IDAutomation_Fonts).
9. Click "Next" to begin the extraction process.
10. Ensure the "Show extracted files when complete" option is checked (optional, but recommended).
11. Click "Finish" once the extraction is complete.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully open your downloaded files, even if they initially presented "file path too long" errors. If you need help reach out to support via the in-platform chat or email support@firmroom.net. We're here to help.

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Updated on: 23/07/2025