Resolving the ‘RSYNC error: file name too long’ error may require a careful approach because of the different aspects involved. Primarily, this error arises when RSYNC attempts to copy or sync files or directories with names exceeding a defined character limit. This set limit also considers the entire path from the root directory to the specific file or directory.
In UNIX and most Linux distributions, including those on which RSYNC typically operates, this limit is generally set at 255 bytes. This is a standard set by the POSIX definition to which UNIX and Linux conform. This limitation is explained in more details in “Unix & Linux” stack exchange community (Stack Exchange Inc., 2003).
However, RSYNC operates by first creating a temporary file that involves adding a unique prefix to the original file/directory name, often leading to an increment in the number of characters. If the original name is already at the edge of the limit, this increment triggers an ‘RSYNC error: file name too long’ error, also detailed in UNIX man pages (2010), the online resource for UNIX and Linux Command line.
To resolve this error, there are multiple potential solutions.
One of these is renaming the file or directory. By shortening the name, it fits within the 255-byte limit, even after RSYNC adds its temporary prefix. This solution is quite straight-forward and can handle isolated cases where only a single or a handful of files/directories generate the error. Renaming can be achieved using the ‘mv’ UNIX/Linux command (Linuxize, 2019).
For a scenario where multiple files/directories are involved, or files/directories are consistently being added that could potentially violate the name length rule, renaming would be impractical. In this case, adjusting the underlying file system to increase the maximum file length limit could be a viable solution. A resource from IBM (2009) suggests for AIX system, increasing the Maximum Bytes of XRAID File System (JFS2) can help solve the problem with names exceeding the set limit.
Furthermore, the “—iconv” option in RSNYC command can be used to convert filenames between local and remote encoding schemes, preventing issues related to character encoding.
It’s key to note that these solutions must be implemented bearing in mind the potential impacts on other systems and processes, especially filesystem modifications that could potentially disrupt normal operations. Always ensure a backup of important data as precautionary measure.
Sources:
1. Stack Exchange Inc. (2003). What defines the maximum size for a file name in Unix/Linux?
2. Unix Man Pages. (2010). Rsync(1).
3. Linuxize. (2019). Linux mv Command.
4. IBM. (2009). Maximum Bytes of XRAID File System (JFS2).
Please note: For very specific technical issues, formal consultation with an IT and systems expert is strongly advised. This response should serve as a general guide to resolving the stated problem. It should not replace direct consultation with a technical specialist who understands the unique needs and structure of your individual system.
