How to Fix File Is Too Large for Destination File System Error on Windows 10

The storage system on your computer can support different file sizes. This way it can easily transfer files between internal and external drives. But once in a while, you will find a file that is too large to be copied while transferring some files. If you are experiencing 'file too large for destination file system' error, try these fixes.

The presence of this error does not mean that the destination has limited storage space. This simply means that the file system cannot support individual transfers of specific file sizes.

If you transfer files larger than 4GB and your USB drive uses the FAT32 file system, the error will probably pop up. Also, transferring files larger than 2GB via a FAT16 file system can cause errors. This is because FAT32 and FAT16 can handle a maximum of 4GB and 2GB of any individual file size, respectively.

Fortunately, converting your file system from FAT32 / 16 to NTFS will fix the problem. Additionally, compressing and splitting files into smaller sizes will simplify the transfer process.

Windows 10 should try to fix the 'file is too big for destination file system' error.

How to Fix File Is Too Large for Destination File

1. Format storage of NTFS using Disk Management

Most Windows systems use NTFS storage. But when transferring files to a USB device with FAT32 or FAT16 file system. To solve this problem, you can format alternative storage, so it supports larger files. You can use Disk Management to change the file system.

Step 1: Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box.

Step 2: Type diskmgmt.msc to access the Disk Management window.

Step 3: Right click on the driver that needs to be changed and press Format.

Step 4: In the file system, select NTFS. Scroll down and perform a quick format, then complete the process by pressing OK.

2. Convert FAT32 file system to NTFS using File Explorer

The Windows built-in system lets you convert files to NTFS or exFAT. These file systems support large files and are therefore ideal for single file transfers that exceed 2GB or 4GB.

Step 1: Press Windows key + E to open File Explorer and select this PC and locate the file you want to convert

Step 2: Right click on it and select Format.

Step 3: Expand the File System option and select NTFS. Check the Quick Format option and click Start.

Step 4: Wait for the process to finish and then transfer your files.

3. Compress and split large files

Shrinking or splitting large files will allow you to transfer files. To make large files smaller, follow these steps.

Step 1: Press Windows key + E to open File Explorer, select this PC to locate the file you want to modify, and select the Add to Archives option.

Step 2: Split to volume, byte option and input maximum file size you want to use.

Step 3: Press OK and the compression process will start.

4. Use the command prompt to convert the FAT32 file

You can use a command prompt to convert files without formatting your drive. Here's how you can do it.

Step 1: Type a command prompt in the Windows search bar and choose Run as administrator.

Step 2: Type Conversion D: / FS: ntfs D is the name of the drive you want to convert. Press Enter to start the scan.

After the process is complete, make sure the file system now reads NTFS. Then, if the files are converted, transfer the files to the target drive.

5. Use alternative storage

If all else fails, consider changing your storage. For example, if the current USB drive has a FAT32 file system, converting it to NTFS storage may solve the problem. Again, it depends on the size of the file.

Alternatively, consider other online storage options such as Cloud. Cloud is an excellent storage platform that supports all types of files. It is also accessible on various operating systems and devices.

Large file transfer

Larger files can be transferred while working on FAT32 or FAT16 file systems. Simple formatting or partitioning of files will ensure that they are compatible with Windows 10 transfer systems. Additionally, it fixes the 'file is too large for destination file system' error.

About Debmalya Datta

Welcome to our blog “CYBER SUGGEST“. Debmalya Datta is a professional Blogger, Developer, Social Media Influencer, Digital Marketer and Entrepreneur. He loves doing work which makes him happy, that’s why he choose Blogging and Educate people. You will love exploring educational stuff on our blog. Live your dreams as much as you can. Be a SHAMELESS SELF-PROMOTER