How to allow longer path/file names

As of V90.##, you will need to allow for longer path/file names, as this is not enabled by default in Windows. Failure to do so will result in the MSB3553 compiler error.

There are two ways that you can do this. They are:-

  1. Via gpedit
  2. Via an elevated PowerShell prompt

Option 1 - via gpedit

Step 1

Search for gpedit.msc from the start or search menu, then open it.

Step 2

Navigate to Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Filesystem.

Step 3

Look for a setting called Enable Win32 Long paths on the right side.

Step 4

Double click the Enable Win32 Long paths setting, click Enabled, then click OK.

Step 5

Close all windows and restart your computer.

Note: It is necessary to do this, so that changes can take effect.

Option 2 - PowerShell

Open a new elevated PowerShell prompt, then run the command as shown below.

New-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\FileSystem" ` -Name "LongPathsEnabled" -Value 1 -PropertyType DWORD -Force