How to Disable the 8.3 Name Creation on NTFS Partitions

 Last reviewed: February 23, 1998
Article ID: Q121007

The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation versions 3.5, 3.51, and 4.0
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server versions 3.5, 3.51, and 4.0

SUMMARY

The creation of 8.3 filenames and directories for all long filenames and directories on NTFS partitions may decrease directory enumeration performance. This article describes a method of disabling the 8.3 name creation on all NTFS partitions.

NOTE: Although disabling 8.3 name creation increases file performance 

      under Windows NT 3.5, some 16-bit applications may not be able
      to find files and directories with long filenames.

MORE INFORMATION

Here is how to disable the 8.3 name creation on all NTFS partitions:

WARNING: Using Registry Editor incorrectly can cause serious, 

         system-wide problems that may require you to reinstall Windows NT
         to correct them. Microsoft cannot guarantee that any problems
         resulting from the use of Registry Editor can be solved. Use this
         tool at your own risk.

  • Start REGEDT32.EXE and locate the following Registry subkey: 

          HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet
      \Control\FileSystem

  • Select the entry: NtfsDisable8dot3NameCreation

    NOTE: By default, the value for this entry is set to 0.

  • From the Edit menu, choose DWORD. Enter the value of 1 in the Data field.

  • Select OK and exit REGEDT32.

  • Exit Windows NT and turn off your computer.

  • Restart your computer and Windows NT.

    • Additional reference words: 3.50 prodnt nthowto
    KBCategory: kbenv
    KBSubcategory: ntfilesys

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    Last reviewed: February 23, 1998
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