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Joomla Error Messages

JFolder::create: Could not create directory

"JFolder :: create: Could not create directory" is a common error message. You may encounter this error when installing a Joomla extension or when moving, copying or installing a Joomla site.

In most cases, this error has to do with the /tmp folder. In this tutorial, I'll show you how to fix this error. You may see this problem while uploading an extension. Here is the full text of this error:

JFolder::create: Could not create directory * Warning: Failed to move file!

Check whether the /tmp folder is present

Go to your Joomla site using FTP or open it in a file manager from your hosting control panel in cPanel, DirectAdmin or Plesk.

JFolder FTP

Look for a folder called / tmp and if it doesn't exist, create it. (use write permissions 0755)

Check the write permissions in Joomla

In your Joomla administrator environment, go to System > System Information and open the "Folder permissions" tab.

Here, check that the "/tmp" folder is writable by Joomla

JFolder schrijfrechten

Check that the /tmp folder is correctly filled in General Configuration

In your Joomla administrator environment, go to System > General Settings and on the "Server" tab.

Check that the path in the "Path to temporary storage (tmp) folder" field matches the server path to your /tmp folder. If in doubt, consult your hosting

If you have moved your website to a new hosting party, be sure to check this.

You can also change this by modifying the configuration.php file.

To do this, find the line starting with public $tmp_path and edit the line to the correct folder.

Need help solving this problem?

Jeroen Moolenschot

About Jeroen

I have been working with the Joomla! CMS since 2006. Besides building and maintaining Joomla! websites and webshops, I am also familiar with search engine optimization (SEO), Joomla hosting and developing templates and extensions. Furthermore, I am a frequent visitor and speaker at JoomlaDays and various Joomla user groups.

I am committed to the Joomla! community as a member of the Extensions Directory team and the organization of Joomla user group Breda and JoomlaDagen Netherlands. In short: Are you looking for a Joomla Specialist, you should contact me!

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