Why Does MP4 Make Duplicate Files in My Folder [6 Quick Fixes]

William Bollson

5 mins read

Updated on 2024-11-22 11:59:13 to Remove Duplicates

Are you wondering, " Why does MP4 make duplicate files in my folder? " This common issue can be frustrating, cluttering your folders and wasting storage space. Duplicate MP4 files often arise due to settings in media players, file transfer errors, or syncing issues, etc

Fortunately, there are simple solutions to manage and prevent these duplicates. This article will cover six quick fixes to identify the root causes and help you keep your folders organized and free of duplicate MP4 files.

Part 1: Why Does MP4 Make Duplicate Files in My Folder?

There are several reasons why MP4 files may duplicate in your folder. Here are some of the common causes:

Cloud Syncing Conflicts: Cloud syncing services like Google Drive, Dropbox and OneDrive sometimes fail to merge files correctly and create duplicate MP4 files. This can happen when syncing across multiple devices or when there’s a network disruption.
Multiple Downloads: Downloading the same MP4 file more than once can create duplicates. If your browser or download manager doesn’t alert you when duplicate files are being saved, this can happen often.
Automatic Backup Software: Backup software can create duplicate MP4 files if it detects any changes in the file’s metadata or location, even if the content is the same.
Incorrect File Copying Process: Copying MP4 files from one location to another can create duplicates, especially when moving files between external drives, USBs or network locations. If the process is interrupted, the system may create a duplicate to preserve data.
Media Player Glitches: Some media players can save multiple versions of an MP4 file while playing or processing the video. Some media players also generate thumbnails or temporary files, which can appear as duplicates.
Virus or Malware Infections: In some cases, a virus or malware can cause your system to create duplicate files, including MP4 videos, as part of its malicious behavior.

Part 2: How to Stop MP4 from Making Duplicate Files in Folder?

Dealing with duplicate MP4 files can be frustrating, but you can stop them from reappearing with a few simple steps. Here's how:

1. Review Cloud Syncing Settings
2. Check the Download and Copy Process
3. Update Both Media Players and File Managers
4. Scan for Viruses
5. Display Hidden MP4 Files and Delete Them

1. Review Cloud Syncing Settings

Cloud services like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox may duplicate files during syncing if there are conflicts or multiple uploads.

Right-click on the cloud app icon in your taskbar.
Go to Settings or Preferences.
In the Sync Settings, turn off similar Automatic Syncing options for the folder with MP4 files or exclude it from syncing.

2. Check the Download and Copy Process

Sometimes, files are duplicated if they are downloaded or copied multiple times unintentionally.

Ensure you’re not clicking "Download" or "Copy" multiple times.
Verify if your browser is downloading files more than once (some browsers automatically rename the duplicates with a number like "file(1).mp4").
Clear download history or cache to avoid repeated downloads.

3. Update Both Media Players and File Managers

Some media players or file management tools may accidentally create duplicates due to outdated software or settings. Update your media player (like VLC, Windows Media Player) and file management software to the latest versions to prevent this.

Open the software. Go to “Help” > “Check for Updates”.
Or, download the latest version from the official website.

4. Scan for Viruses

Some viruses or malware can duplicate files in your system. Run a complete system scan with a reliable antivirus program to eliminate any potential threats.

Run a full virus scan using trusted antivirus software (such as Windows Defender, Avast, or Malwarebytes).
Quarantine or delete any detected threats.
After the scan, check your MP4 folder again to ensure no new duplicate files are being created.

5. Display Hidden MP4 Files and Delete Them

Sometimes, duplicate MP4 files are hidden, making it harder to locate and delete them. By following these steps, you can effectively stop MP4 files from creating duplicates in your folder and maintain a clean media library.

Open File Explorer and click the top “View” tab.
Porceed to choose “Show” > “Hidden items”.
Select the MP4 duplicates from the hidden items to delete.

Part 3: How to find and delete duplicate MP4 files in a folder completely on Mac/PC with one click

Manually deleting duplicate MP4 files can be time-consuming, especially if you have a large library of videos. This is where 4DDiG Duplicate File Deleter comes in. It's a powerful tool designed to thoroughly scan your folders and delete duplicates, freeing up valuable space on your Mac or PC with just one click.

This tool uses the MD5 Message-Digest Algorithm, which ensures 100% accuracy in finding duplicates. This tool supports various file types, including photos, videos (like MP4 files), audio files, and documents, and can even identify similar images.

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What 4DDiG Duplicate File Deleter Can Do

Accurate Matching : Uses MD5 technology to spot exact duplicates.
Supports Many Devices : Scans external drives, USBs, SD cards, and more.
Covers All File Types : Detects duplicate photos, videos, audio files, and documents.
Flexible Settings : Filter by file type, location, or folder.
Smart Deletion Options : Automatically picks duplicates based on file size or age.
Preview Files : Review duplicates before deleting them for safety.

How to Delete Duplicate MP4 Files using 4DDiG Duplicate File Deleter

By walking through the following steps, you can use 4DDiG Duplicate File Deleter to free up space by removing duplicate MP4 files. Here’s a quick guide:

On this duplicate file deleter, tap the left “Duplicates” tab and hit “Get Started”. Then select “Local Drive” where the File Explorer is and touch “Next”.
On the new screen, select all folders to proceed. To customize the scanning settings, please click the gear icon. When adjusted, click the “Scan” button to proceed.
When finished, select “Review Duplicates” to verify the scanned duplicate files to delete. Or, press the “Smart Remove” button to removing all duplicates (including duplicate MP4 files) at one go from folders.

Part 4: How to Prevent Duplicate MP4 Files in Folder

Preventing duplicates in the future is as important as removing them. Here are some tips:

Organize Your Files Properly : Keep your files organized so you don’t accidentally copy or download MP4 files multiple times. Organize files by creating separate folders for each type.
Disable Automatic File Duplication : Check settings on cloud services, media players, and backup software to see if they are set to duplicate files automatically.
Keep Your Software Updated: Update your media players, file managers and operating systems regularly to avoid glitches or bugs that might cause duplication.
Use Duplicate File Prevention Tools: Use duplicate prevention tools like 4DDiG Duplicate File Deleter which detects and manages duplicates before they clutter your storage.
Manual Review of Files: Before copying, downloading, or moving files, review them carefully to avoid creating unnecessary duplicates.

Conclusion

No you know the answer of “ Why does MP4 make duplicate s in my folder ” and the relevant troubleshoot steps.

Particularly, for anyone who tired of manual file cleanups easily, 4DDiG Duplicate File Deleter is a game changer. It helps you to scan, find, and delete duplicate MP4 files in seconds, saving you time and hassle. Download it today to clean up your folders and keep your system running smoothly!