'Directory name is invalid' when trying to access files on mapped network drive

Question

_{Tuesday, September 25, 2018 11:39 PM}

The file server on this local area network is running Windows Server 2012.

On any of the Windows 7 (Pro 64-bit) PCs on this network, when trying to double-click on a file on a mapped network drive, the error 'The Directory Name is invalid' is displayed and the files cannot be opened.

Opening the same files on the mapped drive by first running their respective applications and then selecting 'Open' opens any of the files fine, as does right-clicking on the file and selecting 'Open with' and then choosing the relevant application, as does copying the files from the mapped drive to a local drive and then using double-click.

I would be grateful if someone can solve this mystery for me.

Regards
useful43

All replies (1)

_{Wednesday, September 26, 2018 3:19 AM}

Hi!

This issue might occur if UAC (User Access Control) is enabled, although it is there for a reason, to keep you safe!

There's also another reason why this could happen and that is if  the system temp folder doesn't exist (In C:\Windows\Temp).

I would check to see if the system temp folder exists first under C:\Windows\Temp

If it doesn't exist, create one and then try opening files from mapped network drives again.

Best regards,
Leon

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