When you drag files onto an application shortcut, the application does not start on a Windows Vista-based computer

Consider the following scenario:

• On a Windows Vista-based computer, you have a shortcut for an executable application. The application uses a command-line parameter to open multiple files at the same time.
• You drag multiple files onto the shortcut to start the application.
• The list of files is passed to the application together with the command-line parameter.

In this scenario, the application does not start if the length of the combined paths of the files exceeds 160 characters (MAX_PATH).

To avoid this problem, drag the files onto the application in Windows Explorer. Or, start the application, and open the desired files in the application. For example, drag the files into the application, or use the File menu to open the files.

After you apply this hotfix, the limitation on the length of the combined paths is changed to 2,084 characters (INTERNET_MAX_URL_LENGTH).

Hotfix information

A supported hotfix is available from Microsoft. However, this hotfix is intended to correct only the problem that is described in this article. Apply this hotfix only to systems that are experiencing this specific problem. This hotfix might receive additional testing. Therefore, if you are not severely affected by this problem, we recommend that you wait for the next software update that contains this hotfix.

If the hotfix is available for download, there is a "Hotfix download available" section at the top of this Knowledge Base article. If this section does not appear, contact Microsoft Customer Service and Support to obtain the hotfix.

Note If additional issues occur or if any troubleshooting is required, you might have to create a separate service request. The usual support costs will apply to additional support questions and issues that do not qualify for this specific hotfix. For a complete list of Microsoft Customer Service and Support telephone numbers or to create a separate service request, visit the following Microsoft Web site: Note The "Hotfix download available" form displays the languages for which the hotfix is available. If you do not see your language, it is because a hotfix is not available for that language.

Prerequisites

No prerequisites are required.

Restart requirement

You must restart the computer after you apply this hotfix.

Hotfix replacement information

This hotfix does not replace a previously released hotfix.

File information

The English version of this hotfix has the file attributes (or later file attributes) that are listed in the following table. The dates and times for these files are listed in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). When you view the file information, it is converted to local time. To find the difference between UTC and local time, use the Time Zone tab in the Date and Time item in Control Panel.

Windows Vista, 32-bit versions

Windows Vista, 64-bit versions

Windows Vista, Itanium-based versions

Microsoft has confirmed that this is a problem in the Microsoft products that are listed in the "Applies to" section.