Managing Large .blob Files Using Symbolic Links on Windows

Introduction What Are Symbolic Links? How to Create Symbolic Links on Windows Method 1: Using Command Prompt (Command-Line) Method 2: Using Link Shell Extension (Graphical Interface) Symlinks vs. Traditional Shortcuts Best Practices for Managing Symlinks How to Delete Symbolic Links FAQ Conclusion

 

Introduction

UJAM plugins often use large .blob files to store essential plugin data. Over time, these files cumulatively can grow to consume substantial space on your system drive, leading to performance issues. While UJAM provides internal methods to move .blob files, some plugins like Usynth series, Virtual Pianist series, and Subcraft may not always support these methods, leaving users looking for an alternative solution. 

On Windows, symbolic links (symlinks) offer an efficient way to manage file locations without disrupting program functionality. For instance, symbolic links allow you to relocate large files to secondary storage while preserving their original directory paths, streamlining performance and organization.

This article provides a detailed step-by-step approach to creating, managing, and understanding symbolic links (symlinks) on Windows, covering command-line and graphical solutions, to move .blob files to external or secondary drives without affecting plugin performance.

 

What Are Symbolic Links?

Symbolic links, or symlinks, are advanced pointers that direct Windows to another location on your system. They function like shortcuts but operate at a system level, allowing applications and utilities to read them as the original files. This capability is especially useful for scenarios where storage reallocation is needed without losing file access. Symlinks in Windows are either soft or hard:

• Soft Links: Operate like standard shortcuts, redirecting access to the specified directory.
• Hard Links: Act as complete duplicates, making files appear as if stored in both locations, which applications recognize seamlessly.

Note: Windows terminology may vary slightly. Symbolic links (soft links) and hard links are distinct types, though both are created with the mklink command.

Key Points:

• A symlink is not the actual file but a reference (or "pointer") to it.
• Symlinks are used by many advanced users and developers to manage large files without impacting system performance.
• Unlike shortcuts, symlinks are recognized by all applications on Windows, including command-line utilities.

Example: Let's say that you have a VG-SILK.blob file in %SYSTEMDRIVE%\ProgramData\UJAM\ that you want to move to an external drive. 

(We are assuming that you are moving a file named “VG-SILK.blob” to a Folder named “UJAM” located inside the External Drive called “ExternalDrive”.)

Creating a symlink allows you to move the .blob file to ExternalDrive\UJAM\ while maintaining plugin functionality as if the file is still in its original location.

 

When using symbolic links, certain aspects must be considered to avoid issues related to data integrity, software licensing, and user agreements:

• Data Integrity: UJAM is not liable for any data corruption, loss, or system malfunction caused by improper symlink configurations. Users are responsible for ensuring they correctly follow the instructions when creating and managing symlinks.
• Backup and Liability: Before manipulating critical files, it is advised to back them up to prevent data loss. UJAM recommends that users always keep copies of important files in a secure location.

 

How to Create Symbolic Links on Windows

Method 1: Using Command Prompt (Command-Line)

For those familiar with command-line tools, Command Prompt offers flexibility for symlink creation.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt

• Navigate to Start > Command Prompt and select "Run as Administrator" (required for some link types).

Step 2: Enable Developer Mode

• Non-admin symlinks require Developer Mode. Go to Settings > Update & Security > For Developers and enable Developer Mode.

Step 3: Create the Symbolic Link Using the mklink command with different parameters depending on the link type: (We will only work with the softlinks)

• Soft Link to a File: mklink Link Target
• Soft Link to a Directory: mklink /D Link Target
• Hard Link to a File: mklink /H Link Target
• Directory Junction (Hard Link to a Directory): mklink /J Link Target

Example: To move a file from C:\Original\LargeFile to D:\Storage\LargeFile and create a link at the original location:

mklink C:\Original\LargeFile D:\Storage\LargeFile

 

Note: Paths with spaces need quotes, e.g., mklink /J "C:\Link To Folder" "D:\Target Folder".

Step 4: Verify the Symlink Navigate to the original location (C:\Original\LargeFile), ensuring the link is functional and appears as a regular file.

Method 2: Using Link Shell Extension (Graphical Interface)

For a GUI-based method, the Link Shell Extension offers a convenient way to create symlinks via right-click options.

Step 1: Download Link Shell Extension

• Visit the official Link Shell Extension site and download the extension, along with any prerequisites.

Step 2: Install and Enable the Extension

• Follow the installation instructions and restart your system if prompted.

Step 3: Create the Symbolic Link

1. Right-click on the source file and select Pick Link Source.
2. Navigate to the destination folder, right-click, and go to Drop As > Symbolic Link, choosing the appropriate link type (e.g., Hardlink, Junction, or Symbolic Link).

Symlinks vs. Traditional Shortcuts

Traditional shortcuts are limited to the Windows graphical interface and cannot replicate the functionality of symlinks, which are recognized by both applications and command-line tools, offering seamless file redirection across system processes.

Best Practices for Managing Symlinks

• Use External Drives Cautiously: When linking to files on external drives, ensure they are connected during system startup; otherwise, Windows will not find the files, potentially causing application errors.
• Consider Directory Symlinks for Bulk Data: Linking entire folders, rather than individual files, ensures consistency, particularly when updating large software libraries or handling frequent file changes. To make sure your symlinks remain functional and efficient during software updates or new installations, it's recommended to symlink entire folders rather than individual files. When you symlink a folder, any updates or new files that are introduced during an update process, whether through the UJAM app or direct downloaders, will also follow the symlink. This ensures that the new files are saved to the symlinked directory automatically, keeping everything in one place without breaking the link. By symlinking a folder, you create an "update-safe" environment, as the symlink continues to handle the new or modified files without requiring manual intervention.

How to Delete Symbolic Links

Deleting a symlink does not affect the target file.

• In Windows Explorer: Right-click the symlink and select Delete.
• In Command Prompt: Use the del command to remove a link without affecting the target:
  del "C:\Original\LargeFile"

This removes only the symlink, not the actual file stored on your external drive or somewhere else.

FAQ

Q1: Do symlinks affect application performance?
No, but performance may vary if the target is stored on a slower drive (e.g., a USB 2.0 device).

Q2: Can I create symlinks to files on a network drive?
Yes, symlinks can point to network locations, but performance is subject to network stability.

Q3: Will deleting a symlink remove the original file?
No, deleting a symlink only removes the link, leaving the target file intact.

Q4: Are symlinks compatible with all Windows applications?
Most applications recognize symlinks, though behavior may vary for older or proprietary software.

Conclusion

Symbolic links on Windows offer a robust solution for managing file locations, optimizing storage, and improving system organization. Whether you use the command line or a graphical tool, symlinks simplify complex file management needs. Remember to follow best practices and take precautions to prevent data loss. For any further help, consult support.