Correcting the error: “The directory name is invalid”
System errors like ERROR_DIRECTORY can occur on any PC and they prevent you from opening certain directories or files. Typically, this error occurs because the directory name is invalid, and today we’ll show you how to fix it.
Disconnecting the DVD drive
According to users, the crash occurs when trying to play DVD disc on PC. To fix the problem, unplug the DVD device from Device Manager and re-enable it:
- Press Win Key + X, open Win + X menu> Device Manager from the list.
- When TV Manager opens, locate your DVD drive, click it and select Disable Device.
- Select “Yes” to confirm.
- Find the DVD drive again, click it> Enable Device.
Connecting the DVD Drive to a Different Port
The “The directory name is invalid” problem when trying to play a DVD disc is resolved by connecting the drive to a different port. To do this, open your computer case and plug the DVD into a different SATA port on your motherboard.
Repair / uninstall Windows Essentials
According to users, this error is caused by WE. This is a useful set of tools, but it has compatibility issues with Windows 10. To fix the crash, uninstall and restore this program:
- Press Win Key + I, open “Settings”.
- Go to the “Services” section. Select Windows Essentials> Repair or Remove.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to repair or uninstall the app.
Installing the latest update
Windows 10 is a great operating system, but some bugs cause crashes. It is recommended to download the latest Windows updates. By default, the OS automatically loads them in the background. To check if the OS is up to date, follow these steps:
- Press Windows + I> Settings.
- Go to Update & Security> Check for Updates.
Reinstalling the audio driver
If you are having difficulty trying to play optical discs, fix it by reinstalling the DVD drive drivers:
- Open the dispatcher us-tv.
- Find the drive in the list, select “Uninstall device”.
- Click Remove.
- Once uninstalled, click the S icon for hardware changes.
Antivirus check
Many antivirus applications cause crashes and obstructions when launching certain utilities. It is recommended to check your antivirus settings and disable them. If disabling the antivirus fixes the crash, then use the method as temporary. If the issue is not resolved, try uninstalling the program.
Entering Safe Mode
Sometimes the issue is caused by “firewood” or third-party utilities, and the best way to fix this is to enter Safe Mode.
- Open Start> Power. Hold down the Shift key and choose Restart.
- Click on Troubleshoot> Advanced Options> Startup Options> Restart.
- After rebooting, select any version of Safe Mode by pressing the corresponding keyboard key.
System Restore
If the crash occurred recently, fix it by performing a system restore:
- Press Win + S and enter recovery. Click “Create a restore point”.
- Click “System Restore”.
- Select the Show additional restore point items when available check box. Click “Next”.