How to Fix the File Is Too Large for Destination File System?

Sharing data from one destination to another is everyday practice while working in a digital environment. Whether copying work-related documents, sharing photos and videos, or sending important files through an external drive. It is crucial to copy the data and then save it to some external source to transfer. It is also obvious that you may receive the message – “file too large for destination file system” while copying a file to an external drive. There are a couple of reasons you get that error message. But do not worry there are some easiest ways to resolve them on your own. This article will focus on this issue to provide you with 5 effective solutions where you could solve a file is too large for destination file system USB Windows 7 problem by yourself in a flash. Before we see the fixes, let us take a peek into what causes this error to happen.

Part 1: What Causes the File Is Too Large for Destination File System?

When you try to move a file from your computer to an outside drive and get the error the file is too large for the destination file system, it means it has something to do with the file system. The file system is responsible for controlling how the copied data is going to be stored on an external or internal drive.

It also identifies and organizes the files and folders in the drive according to the system. As we are specifically talking about Windows, it has its own exclusive file system known as FAT, FAT32, and NTFS.

These file systems are unique in their own way and allow you to move a limited sized file to the drive. In short:

• FAT16 supports a file up to 2GB in maximum size.
• FAT32 supports the 4GB maximum of single file size.
• NTFS, on the contrary, gives you the privilege of moving a 16TB single file.

Now you know what causes the error file is too large for destination file system flash drive is not the culprit; however, the file system surely is. The fact that the file system only allows a specific file size to move makes you understand that the issue results from the limit of maximum size of the destination drive file system.

Half of the problem could be solved just by checking your drive file system. Mostly it is either FAT or FAT32. Now you need to change the file system to NTFS and quickly move your data to the external drive.

Let us also tell you that removing the error if the file is too large for the destination file system without formatting is ok, but if you choose to format the drive, you may face data loss and need to recover it.

No worries, we have the solution for that too, But let us focus on the fixes we have for the error message you receive during transferring the files.

Part 2: How to Fix Error if a File is Too Large for the Destination File System?

Here are 5 ways to get it done on your own without any expert help. It would be best to take a backup of the drive to avoid data loss in the first place.

Method 1. Compressor Split the Big Files

This is the most unique and handy approach of fixing the “file is too large for destination file system USB windows 7” error. Compressing and splitting the big files will reduce their size. You will be able to upload a compressed file onto a USB drive without formatting or changing the file system.

Step 1: Download 7-Zip or WinRAR. They are compression tools to reduce the file size.

Step 2: Locate the file that is too large for the destination.

Step 3: Select Add to the archive by right-clicking on the file.

Step 4: Name the archive.

Step 5: There is a drop-down menu select size from the Split to Volumes.

Step 6: Click on the OK button to start the process.

If the file is too large for destination file system fat32 try uploading the files one by one and not as a group. Splitting the folder or files like this will instantly solve the problem.

Method 2. Format FAT32 to NTFS in Windows Explorer

Formatting the FAT32 to NTFS in Windows Explorer is another way to avoid the error if the file is too large for the destination file system.

Step 1: Head to “Start Menu” and click “Computer.”

Step 2: Locate and pitch on the destination drive in Windows Explorer.

Step 3: Right-click on the file and click Format.

Step 4: Select “NTFS” in the “File System” field.

Step 5: Punch in the “Start” button.

Method 3. Format FAT32 to NTFS in Disk Management

Reformatting the same procedure in Disk Management is also a great way to change the file system when you keep getting this file is too large for the destination file system.

Step 1: Go to the Run dialog box, press “Win” + “R” to bring it up.

Step 2: Punch the keys “diskmgmt.msc” in the field and press the “Enter” key.

Step 3: Find the destination drive and right-click on it.

Step 4: Choose the “Format” option.

Step 5: A pop up box will appear, select “NTFS” in the “File System” and click OK.

Method 4. Change File System in Command Prompt

Like the above-given process, you will do it in the command prompt instead of disk management.

Step 1: Press Window+R keys at once.

Step 2: Type "cmd" and press the "Enter."

Step 3: Write "convert [drive letter]: /fs: file system" in the displayed Command Prompt window.

Step 4: Press OK.

Method 5. Convert File System by Third Party Tool

If you have done everything stated above and still get the error that the file is too large for the destination file system, then you need third-party help. File system conversion tools are available on the market. Go for a reliable, professional, and renowned tool to have a try.

Part 3: How to Recover Lost Data after Formatting FAT32 to NTFS?

After you format FAT32 to NTFS, you'll lose the original data. Tenorshare 4DDiG Data Recovery enables you to recover any formatted or deleted data from USB, SD cards, and all the other external devices as well as Windows/Mac computers. You can have your data back instantly in just three steps. You might need it at some point, so why not download it in advance. It's absolutely free to try.

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Following the discovery of the target files, you can preview and recover them to a secure location. In case of disk overwriting and permanent data loss, please do not save to the same partition where you lost them.

FAQs

1. How do I copy a 5gb file to FAT32?

You can not. It is better to change the file system to NTFS or try a compress and split method to copy. Otherwise you will keep getting a file is too large for the destination file system USB error.

2. Why does my USB say the file is too large?

The error you get, file is too large for destination file system USB because you are trying to copy a file that is not allowed by the file system of the USB.

3. How do I change a FAT32 file to NTFS without formatting?

You can change the File System through Command Prompt to avoid formatting.

Conclusion:

Now you know the smartest way of getting rid of the error file too large for destination file system. Moreover, you do not have to worry about data loss during the formatting. You have Tenorshare 4DDiG Data Recovery with you. Getting your lost data back from any external drive without damaging it is a real treat. Use the above-given methods to format the file system and get the data back through 4DDiG recovery software. It is quicker than you think and reliable like your friend. Do not forget to download it today!