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Node.js expected a file but received a directory path

EISDIR: illegal operation on a directory

Node.js attempted a file-oriented operation on a path that actually points to a directory.

EISDIRfilesystem

Observed message

EISDIR: illegal operation on a directory

Why it happens

  • A directory path was passed to code that expects a file.
  • Path building logic resolved to a folder instead of the intended file.
  • User input or configuration points at the wrong target path.

How to fix it

  1. Log and verify the resolved path before the file operation runs.
  2. Use directory-specific APIs when the target is meant to be a folder.
  3. Correct the path assembly or configuration so it references the intended file.

Official reference

Node.js Errors

Related errors

ENOENTNode.js could not find the requested file or directoryENOTDIRNode.js expected a directory but found a file path insteadEEXISTNode.js tried to create a file or directory that already existsECONNREFUSEDNode.js connection was refused by the target service

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Node.js EISDIR illegal operation on a directory: causes and fixes | Error Atlas