Troubleshooting guide: How to fix The Filename, Directory Name, or Volume Label Syntax is Incorrect error

If you are facing an error message that reads 'The Filename, Directory Name, or Volume Label Syntax is Incorrect' on your Windows computer, it can be frustrating and confusing. This error message indicates that there is some issue with the file path or name. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix this error.

Possible causes of 'The Filename, Directory Name, or Volume Label Syntax is Incorrect' error

There are several reasons why you might be facing this error message. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Incorrect file name or path
  • Invalid characters in file name or path
  • Missing or corrupted system files
  • Disk errors
  • Malware or virus infection

How to fix 'The Filename, Directory Name, or Volume Label Syntax is Incorrect' error

Here are the steps you need to follow to fix this error:

Step 1: Check the file name and path

The first thing you need to do is check the file name and path. Make sure that the file name does not contain any invalid characters such as \ / : * ? " < > |. Also, ensure that the path is correct and does not contain any typos.

Step 2: Run a malware scan

Malware or virus infections can also cause this error message. Run a malware scan on your computer using a trusted antivirus software to check for any infections.

Step 3: Check for disk errors

Disk errors can also cause this error message. Run the CHKDSK utility to scan for and fix any disk errors. Here's how to do it:

  1. Open the Command Prompt by searching for it in the Start Menu.
  2. Right-click on the Command Prompt and select 'Run as administrator'.
  3. Type 'chkdsk /f /r' and press Enter.
  4. The utility will scan your disk for errors and fix them if necessary.

Step 4: Check for missing or corrupted system files

Missing or corrupted system files can also cause this error message. Run the System File Checker (SFC) utility to scan for and fix any missing or corrupted system files. Here's how to do it:

  1. Open the Command Prompt by searching for it in the Start Menu.
  2. Right-click on the Command Prompt and select 'Run as administrator'.
  3. Type 'sfc /scannow' and press Enter.
  4. The utility will scan your system for missing or corrupted files and fix them if necessary.

Step 5: Perform a System Restore

If none of the above steps have worked, you can try performing a System Restore to revert your system to an earlier state before the error occurred. Here's how to do it:

  1. Open the Start Menu and search for 'System Restore'.
  2. Select 'Create a restore point'.
  3. Click on 'System Restore'.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to select a restore point and perform the restore.

FAQ

Q1. What is the Filename, Directory Name, or Volume Label Syntax is Incorrect error?

A1. The Filename, Directory Name, or Volume Label Syntax is Incorrect error is a Windows error message that indicates there is some issue with the file path or name.

Q2. What causes the Filename, Directory Name, or Volume Label Syntax is Incorrect error?

A2. The error can be caused by incorrect file name or path, invalid characters in file name or path, missing or corrupted system files, disk errors, or malware or virus infection.

Q3. How do I fix the Filename, Directory Name, or Volume Label Syntax is Incorrect error?

A3. You can fix the error by checking the file name and path, running a malware scan, checking for disk errors, checking for missing or corrupted system files, or performing a system restore.

Q4. How do I run the CHKDSK utility?

A4. You can run the CHKDSK utility by opening the Command Prompt as an administrator, typing 'chkdsk /f /r', and pressing Enter.

Q5. How do I run the System File Checker utility?

A5. You can run the System File Checker utility by opening the Command Prompt as an administrator, typing 'sfc /scannow', and pressing Enter.

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