Unlocking Your Files: The Best LONG PATH Error Fixer Alternatives
LONG PATH Error Fixer is a highly versatile solution designed to tackle the frustrating problem of dealing with files and folders that have paths exceeding Windows Explorer's 256-character limit. It's adept at handling pathnames up to 32,000 characters and resolves a multitude of error messages like "Path too long," "Access is denied," and "The file is in use by another program." While LONG PATH Error Fixer is a powerful tool, you might be looking for a LONG PATH Error Fixer alternative that offers different features, a more streamlined experience, or simply a free option. This article explores some of the best alternatives available to help you regain control over your stubborn files.
Top LONG PATH Error Fixer Alternatives
When Windows throws up a wall because of a long path or a locked file, these alternatives step in to save the day. Whether you need a simple unlocker or a tool designed specifically for deep paths, you'll find a solution here.
Unlocker
Unlocker is a popular free alternative to LONG PATH Error Fixer, specifically designed to help you get rid of error messages like "Error deleting or renaming file or folder" or "cannot delete folder: it's being used by another person or program." It's available for Windows, supports 64-bit systems, and integrates seamlessly into the context menu for quick access, making it incredibly convenient for unlocking stubborn files.
LockHunter
LockHunter is another excellent free LONG PATH Error Fixer alternative for Windows users. It's a robust tool for deleting files blocked by unknown processes, which can be particularly useful when fighting malware or other programs that are preventing you from manipulating your files. LockHunter also features 64-bit support and context menu integration, providing an efficient way to unlock and delete files.
FileASSASSIN
FileASSASSIN is a free, lightweight Windows application capable of deleting various types of locked files on your computer. Whether the files are remnants of a malware infection or simply stuck due to system processes, FileASSASSIN can often force their deletion, making it a valuable tool alongside or instead of LONG PATH Error Fixer for specific stubborn file issues.
EMCO UnLock IT
EMCO UnLock IT is a neat free utility for Windows that helps you take control of any file or folder locked by an application or the system. For every locked resource, it provides a list of processes using it, allowing you to selectively terminate them. Its Windows Explorer integration makes it a seamless alternative to LONG PATH Error Fixer for managing locked files.
Path Too Long PRO
Path Too Long PRO, a commercial Windows application, is a direct competitor and a strong LONG PATH Error Fixer alternative specifically designed for scenarios where the file path is too long to delete or manipulate. Developed by ABTO Software, it aims to remove any file Windows has blocked due to excessive path length, providing a dedicated solution for this common problem.
OpenedFilesView
OpenedFilesView is a free Windows tool that doesn't directly delete files but provides crucial information to help you identify why a file might be locked. It displays a list of all opened files on your system, including handle value, read/write/delete access, and the process opening the file. This diagnostic capability makes it a useful companion or even a preceding step to using a LONG PATH Error Fixer alternative, allowing you to understand the lock before attempting to bypass it.
DelinvFile
DelinvFile is a commercial Windows program that serves as a direct alternative to LONG PATH Error Fixer for managing files and folders with invalid names that cannot be deleted or renamed via Windows Explorer. This includes names with invalid characters and, importantly, names that are too long. It offers a specialized solution for these specific file manipulation challenges.
WhoLockMe
WhoLockMe is a free Windows Explorer extension designed to answer the frustrating question of "Who is locking my file?" when you encounter messages like "Error Deleting File or Folder" or "There has been a sharing violation." It provides immediate insight into which process is using the file, allowing you to address the root cause and then delete the file, making it a valuable LONG PATH Error Fixer alternative for identifying file locks.
Lock-UnMatic
For Mac users seeking a LONG PATH Error Fixer alternative for similar issues, Lock-UnMatic is a free tool. It addresses situations where files on a Mac cannot be deleted, moved, or renamed due to insufficient access rights or because some processes are still using them, offering a solution for Apple's ecosystem akin to the Windows-based tools.
Delete Doctor
Delete Doctor is a free Windows program designed to eliminate files that are notoriously difficult to delete, such as those left behind by viruses, trojans, or files with corrupted names. It can also handle files that are currently in use, making it a viable LONG PATH Error Fixer alternative for those particularly stubborn deletion scenarios.
Exploring these alternatives will help you find the perfect tool to overcome file management frustrations, whether it's dealing with excessively long paths, locked files, or files with invalid names. Consider your specific needs, operating system, and budget to select the best fit for your digital toolkit.