5 Ways to Fix the ERROR_INVALID_NAME

First, check the file and directory name to understand the problem

5 min. read

Published onOctober 14, 2024

published onOctober 14, 2024

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For fixing Windows errors, we recommend Fortect:

Fortect will identify and deploy the correct fix for your Windows errors. Follow the 3 easy steps to get rid of Windows errors:

The ERROR_INVALID_NAME typically occurs in Windows systems when an app or operation encounters a file or directory name that is not valid.

First, determine when the error occurs, whether during file operations, application installation, or any other action. Then, closely check the error message, which can tell you about the file or directory causing the issue.

How can I get rid of the ERROR_INVALID_NAME?

1. Check file/directory name

Windows doesn’t allow certain characters in file or directory names, including \ / : * ? ” < > | so make sure you don’t use any of these. Also, refrain from using reserved names like CON, PRN, AUX, NUL, COM1 to COM9, LPT1 to LPT9.

If you can access the file/directory, right-click it, choose Rename, and remove invalid characters or reserved names. Also, ensure the total path length is less than 260 characters.

2. Check the permissions

If you don’t see your user account in the list of groups and user names, you need to add it. For that, follow these steps:

If you face any other issues related to file permissions such asfiles not inheriting permissions from parent folder; you can check out this detailed guide.

3. Using the Command Prompt

4. Run the SFC scan

Running the SFC scan can also help you fix theERROR_WAIT_NO_CHILDREN 128 (0x80); read this guide to learn more.

5. Using the Safe mode

Your computer will restart in safe mode with networking, allowing you to connect to the Internet while accessing only essential functionality. Try renaming the file.

6. Check for Windows Updates

In conclusion, to fix the ERROR_INVALID_NAME, validate the file or drive name, check the file’s permissions, use Command Prompt to rename the file, run the SFC scan to restore missing files, or use Safe mode.

Did we miss a step that helped you fix the issue? If so, share it with our readers in the comments section below. We will add it to the list.

5 Ways to Fix the ERROR_INVALID_NAME#

How can I get rid of the ERROR_INVALID_NAME?#

1. Check file/directory name#

2. Check the permissions#

3. Using the Command Prompt#

4. Run the SFC scan#

5. Using the Safe mode#

6. Check for Windows Updates#