# macOS: The operation can't be completed because one or more required items can't be found. (Error code -43)

**Code:** `Finder error code -43` · **Category:** macOS · **Seen on:** macOS

Finder tried to act on an item that is gone, renamed, or an alias/symlink pointing nowhere.

## Meaning

Usually a broken alias, a file removed mid-operation, or a name with unusual characters on a shared/external volume. Refresh the folder, reselect the item, remove dead aliases, or use Terminal (`ls -la`, `cp -R`) to see the real problem. Also try rebuilding Finder prefs: remove `~/Library/Preferences/com.apple.finder.plist`.

## Common causes

- Broken alias or symbolic link
- Item deleted/moved during the operation
- Special characters in file names on SMB/exFAT
- Network share disconnected
- Corrupted Finder preferences

## Quick fix

1. Refresh/reselect the item and retry
2. Delete the broken alias and relink
3. Reset Finder: `defaults delete com.apple.finder && killall Finder`

## Detailed fix by platform

### macOS

1. `ls -la@ path` and `file path` to inspect aliases/links

## How to diagnose

1. **Item** — Exists?
2. **Alias** — Broken?
3. **Volume** — Still mounted?

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Source: [WhatIsMyError](https://whatismyerror.com/errors/macos/finder-error-code-43)