How to Enable Long Path Support via Regedit

Windows historically enforces a 260-character limit for file paths, known as the MAX_PATH limitation. In modern versions of Windows, including Windows 10 and Windows 11, you can remove this restriction by modifying a specific value in the Windows Registry. This article provides a straightforward, step-by-step guide to enabling native Win32 long path support using the Registry Editor (regedit).

Steps to Enable Long Path Support

  1. Open the Registry Editor
    • Press the Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
    • Type regedit and press Enter (or click OK).
    • If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click Yes to allow administrative access.
  2. Navigate to the FileSystem Key

    • Copy and paste the following path into the address bar at the top of the Registry Editor, then press Enter:

      HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\FileSystem

    • Alternatively, use the left-hand navigation pane to expand the folders to that location.

  3. Modify the LongPathsEnabled Value
    • In the right pane, look for a DWORD (32-bit) value named LongPathsEnabled.
    • If it does not exist, right-click an empty space in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it LongPathsEnabled.
    • Double-click LongPathsEnabled to open its properties.
    • In the Value data field, change the value from 0 to 1.
    • Ensure the Base is set to Hexadecimal (or Decimal, as both represent 1 the same way).
    • Click OK to save the changes.
  4. Restart Your Computer
    • Close the Registry Editor.
    • Restart your computer or sign out and sign back in for the changes to take full effect across the operating system.

Important Notes