Error 0x800700CE, The filename or extension is too long

While renaming specific files or folders, many users have reported facing Error 0x800700CE, The filename or extension is too long. The error message also prevents the user from accessing that file or folder.

Rename Folder
An unexpected error is keeping you from renaming the folder. If you continue to receive this error, you can use the error code to search for help with this problem.
Error 0x800700CE: The filename or extension is too long.

Worry not if you’re also struggling with the same problem. It’s very easy to troubleshoot this issue. Just try the solutions below to get rid of the problem.

What causes Error 0x800700CE, The filename or extension is too long?

There isn’t any specific reason behind the mentioned issue, but the problem mainly occurs on a system in which a third-party antivirus program was installed recently. Thus, it can be a significant reason behind the problem. Along with this, the problem can also occur due to a temporary glitch in the destinated folder. If this is the case, you can use File and Folder troubleshooter to fix the problem.

Fix Error 0x800700CE, The filename or extension is too long in Windows 11/10

Below is the list of all the effective solutions to try if you face Error 0x800700CE, The filename or extension is too long on your Windows 11/10 computer:

1. Run File and Folder troubleshooter
2. Create a new user account
3. Rename File/ Folder using Command Prompt
4. Create a Network Drive
5. Enable Win32 long paths

Now, let’s check out all these solutions in detail.

1] Run File and Folder troubleshooter

Windows File and Folder Troubleshooter is an automatic troubleshooting solution for diagnosing and repairing problems related to files and folders. It is one of the best ways to eliminate any issue related to deleting, copying, or renaming files or folders. You can also use this solution to get rid of Error 0x800700CE: The filename or extension is too long. Here’s how to do it.

1. To begin with, download the File and Folder troubleshooter by visiting Microsoft.
2. Once the download is complete, launch the file.
3. Click on the Next option.
4. Checkmark Problem with deleting files or folders, and Renaming or moving files and folders option.
5. Click on the Next option.
6. The troubleshooter will look for any available issues.
7. If found, it will automatically fix it.

Once the process is complete, exit the window. Reboot your system and check if the problem is fixed or not. If yes, you are good to go. But in case the problem continues, try the next solution on the list.

See: How to rename Files or Folders in Windows.

2] Create a new user account

It can be the case that there is some issue with the user profile you’re currently using. If this is the case, you are left with no other option than to create a new user account.

So, create a new account and check if it solves the problem. If not, continue with the troubleshooting guide.

See: How to take Ownership of Files & Folders in Windows.

3] Rename File/ Folder using Command Prompt

Error 0x800700CE: The filename or extension is too long mainly indicates that the user struggles to rename the files or folder. You can overcome this problem using the Command Prompt, which lets the user rename files and folders with ease. Follow the below steps.

Click on the address bar and type “cmd,” and then press Enter. Use the following syntax:

ren file_path new_name

For example, this will rename the document named fileB located on the D drive to fileC.

ren d:\fileB.doc fileC.doc

Read: Long Path Fixer tool will fix Path Too Long errors.

4] Create a Network Drive

The next solution you can try in this situation is to create a Network Drive. To do so, follow the below steps.

1. To begin with, navigate to the place where you have saved the problematic file.
2. Right-click on the file and move the cursor to Give access to.
3. Select Specific people.
4. Select the user you want to share the file and click on the Share option.
5. Open This PC.
6. Click on the three-dots present at the top of the window.
7. Choose Map network drive from the context menu.
8. Select the destination of the problematic file.
9. Uncheck Reconnect at sign-in option.
10. Click on Finish.

Read:

• Fix Path too long Error 0x80010135
• Unspecified error when copying a file or folder in Windows.

5] Enable Win32 long paths

Another major reason you face the problem is that you are not allowed to access paths beyond the normal 260-character limit. You will have to bypass the limit to solve the problem. Here’s how it’s done.

1. Open the Run dialogue box, type gpedit.msc, and press the enter key.
2. Navigate to Local Computer Policy > Administrative Templates > System > Filesystem.
3. Double click on Enable Win32 long paths.
4. In the following window, click on the Enabled option.
5. Click on Apply > OK.

Read: The file name(s) would be too long for the destination folder

How do you fix The file name or extension is too long?

It’s very easy to fix the File name or extension is too long problem. You can try these solutions in the situation: run File and Folder troubleshooter, create a new user account, rename File/ Folder using Command Prompt, and create a Network Drive. You can even enable Win32 long paths to solve the problem.

Read Next: How to create a link to File or Folder in Windows.