Compressed folders error: Windows cannot complete the extraction. The destination path is too long. Rename the compressed folder and try again

Question

I keep getting this error when I attempt to open a compressed file but I am unable to rename as it says (the option isn't given). I have Windows 11. How can I solve this?

Answer 1

Hi Jackie,

Sorry for not explaining it in detail.

Please create a temporary folder in the C:\ drive (e.g., C:\Zip)

Move the .zip file to that directory, and extract the files to a subfolder. See How to unzip files on Windows 11, 10

(or)

Get the 7-Zip portable version from this third-party link: https://portableapps.com/apps/utilities/7-zip_portable

Portable version of the program is unavailable from the 7-Zip official site. The Portableapps.com portal is not owned by 7-Zip, but it's a trusted domain.

Answer 2

Hi Jackie,

This happens if the file path exceeds 260 characters. Use one of the following workarounds.

• Copy the zip file to the drive’s root directory and unzip the contents to a subfolder.

-or-

• Use a third-party tool like 7-Zip to avoid the MAX_PATH limitation.

Answer 3

Thank you for the reply, but I am not very tech savvy and have no idea how to do what you are suggesting. I don't know what is meant by root directory or how to copy the file there, nor do I know how to unzip to a subfolder.

Also, on the computer I need to open it most, I do not have administrative credentials (it's a work computer) so I'm not sure I'd be able to use the 3rd party tool. On my own computer, would I just Google 7-zip and use it from there?

I appreciate your help.

Answer 4

It worked! Thank you so much!