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Cannot Create a File When That File Already Exists [GPO Fix]
Startup errors often lead to duplicate files on Group Policy
4 min. read
Updated onMarch 29, 2024
updated onMarch 29, 2024
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Key notes
Users report that they encounter the error message: Group Policy cannot create a file when that file already exists. It may occur when performing several actions as editing file status or moving files.
Furthermore, the error can occur in many instances on the PC like Command Prompt (cmd), File Explorer, etc. You need not panic if you are experiencing the problem, as we’ll discuss how to fix the problem in this article.
What is causing GPO cannot create a file when that file already exists?
The error shows up when a file with the given name already exists in the Group Policy registry. It occurs due to numerous Windows glitches that can randomly affect your PC. However, other causes are:
How can I fix it if there is already a folder with the same name as the file name you specified?
Before proceeding with any troubleshooting on your device, ensure you observe the following checks:
1. Boot your PC in Safe Mode
Wait for your PC to reboot, then check if you’re able to fix the cannot create a file when that file already exists in C error.
The procedure for safe booting may differ for some users. However, please read our article abouthow to start Windows 11 in Safe Modewithout issues.
2. Update Windows
3. Run a System File Checker (SFC) scan
Restart your computer to help it sync correctly and see if you can fix the issue. The scan will detect any problems affecting your files.
Sometimes Windows won’t detect any problems even though some errors persist. In this case, we recommend using athird-party toolfor a full scan and repair of corrupted files.
4. Check the device’s Registry
We recommend you restart your PC and check if you cannot create a file when that file already exists error in CMD persists.
Cleaning up data from the Registry requires precise knowledge of the process. Hence, we have a detailed guide onhow to clean the Registry in Windows 11and why you should do it.
Also, you can checkhow to restore the Registry without backup on Windows 11per adventure if you delete important data.
In conclusion, editing the Group Policy’s data and files can be dangerous to the system if not done correctly. However, you can readhow to edit the Group Policyin Windows 11.
If this guide has been helpful to you, kindly leave feedback in the comments section. Should you also have other suggestions that have worked for you, we’d like to hear them.
More about the topics:group policy editor
Henderson Jayden Harper
Windows Software Expert
Passionate about technology, Crypto, software, Windows, and everything computer-related, he spends most of his time developing new skills and learning more about the tech world.
He also enjoys gaming, writing, walking his dog, and reading and learning about new cultures. He also enjoys spending private time connecting with nature.
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Henderson Jayden Harper
Windows Software Expert
Passionate about technology, Crypto, software, Windows, and everything computer-related, he spends most of his time developing new skills.
