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Computers often use shortcut links to make it easier for
users to locate and open files.
These links are commonly placed in a folder easily
accessible to users, such as a desktop folder.
When a shortcut is created, it is given directory
information and an icon.
If the file associated with a shortcut is later moved, the
shortcut may fail to locate the file.
When this problem occurs, you need to update the shortcut's
directory information.
This process is often automated by operating systems, but in
a some instances, you need to repair shortcuts manually
Right-click on a broken shortcut link's icon.
Select the "Properties" option. Locate the
"Target" box and copy its information into your clipboard using the
Ctrl and C keys.
Open the "My Computer" folder on your computer
and paste the target information into the folder's address bar using the Ctrl
and V keys.
If the address bar is not viewable, you may need to enable
it in the folder's settings.
Find address bar options in the "View" menu under
"Toolbars."
The file's target path folder will open.
Locate the file in the target path folder.
If the file is not present, the target path is inaccurate
and likely the cause of the shortcut link error.
Locate the file in its correct folder.
Browse folders or search for the file by typing the file
name into the "Start" menu.
After finding the file, open the properties of the shortcut
link icon again.
Copy the file's correct path, from the containing folder's
address bar, and paste it in to the "Target" box, replacing the
incorrect link.
Another way to find a file's target path is by right
clicking on the file and selecting Properties.
You can find accurate target information in the
"Target" box, provided the icon is the original file icon and not a
shortcut.
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