SPSS - Error 1320. The specified path is too long.

This document walks you through fixing this error message

Related KBs:
SPSS - Installation V27 Instructions for Windows
SPSS - Installation V27 Instructions for macOS

Error 1320 or 1317. "The specified path is too long" or "Cannot create directory."

1. Select your Start button.  Then, select Computer.

2. Choose the Organize drop-down located in the upper left-hand corner and select Folder and Search Options.

3. Choose the View tab, select the following options

Select/Check "Show hidden files, folders and drives"

De-select/Uncheck "Hide protected operating system files" -> OK

4. Navigate to C:\ProgramData.

5. Locate the Application Data shortcut.

6. Select and drag the Application Data shortcut to another location, such as your Desktop. Some users have reported that this folder is locked and is not able to be moved; in this situation, you can try to rename the folder instead (perhaps to "Application Data_"). This should allow you to proceed in the same way as moving it.

7. Install SPSS.

8. When the installation is complete, move the Application Data shortcut to its original location.

9. Select your Start button, then select Computer.

10. Choose the Organize drop-down located in the upper left-hand corner and select Folder and Search Options.

11. Choose the View tab, select the following options:

De-select/Uncheck "Show hidden files, folders, and drives"

Select/Check "Hide protected operating system files"-> OK.

12. Close the window.