Long File Names using \\?\ is nuisance, any alternatives

Use ExpandUNCFileName to get full path with computer name:
http://delphi.about.com/library/rtl/blrtlExpandUNCFileName.htm

and ExpandFileName for internal use:

http://delphi.about.com/library/rtl/blrtlExpandFileName.htm

I meant where filename > 255 chrs

does anybody actually type in such a long file name ?
get serious !
there is a reason why it's limited to 255 chars:
  the human brain can't remember a path longer than that
how many times per day does anybody ask if they still know that path name ?

same problem here. in the end they had to admit they used shortcuts to the folder ...

if it's on a \\ path
create a shared folder on that server to the common deepest level it can go
then start from there

sample:
\\server\c$\a\b\c\d\e\f\g\h\i\j\k\l\m\o\p
> share named "ooo" on server to c:\a\b\c\d\e\f\g\h\i\j\k\l\m\o

this then changes to
\\server\ooo\p

Since windows allows such paths users create it. I have a backup application, if I cannot backup the data then User does not purchase my package. I loose the client without any chance of explaining to him how he can make use of Shared folders.

What I need to know is, if there is a common logic that I can use for standard files and the ones > 255.

have you considered backing a system with a synchronous DR system  in place ?

the data ... most data resides in databases
the data files usually require a databases specific mechanism to do backups

windows ... so your software can restore a complete windows environment
without having access to the windows system itself ?

i hope you considered all those questions ... :)