git-lfs filter-process: 1: git-lfs: not found

Full AI 2025

3 min read 07-03-2025

The error "git-lfs filter-process: 1: git-lfs: not found" is a common headache for developers using Git Large File Storage (LFS). This frustrating message indicates that Git can't find the Git LFS command-line tool, preventing it from properly handling large files. Let's dive into the causes and how to fix this problem.

Understanding the Error

Git LFS manages large files outside of the main Git repository, storing pointers instead. When you clone a repository using LFS, these pointers are downloaded, and Git LFS handles fetching the actual large files as needed. The error "git-lfs filter-process: 1: git-lfs: not found" arises because Git, during its file processing, is attempting to use Git LFS but can't locate the necessary executable. This means your system can't find the Git LFS installation, or Git is not configured correctly to use it.

Common Causes and Solutions

Several reasons could trigger this error. Let's examine them systematically and provide solutions:

1. Git LFS is Not Installed

This is the most frequent culprit. If you haven't installed Git LFS, you need to do so before proceeding.

Installation: Use your system's package manager (e.g., apt, brew, choco) or download the installer directly from the official Git LFS website. After installation, ensure the git lfs command works correctly by running it in your terminal: git lfs install.

2. Git LFS is Not Installed in the Correct Path

Even if Git LFS is installed, your system's environment variables might not be configured to find it. This prevents Git from locating the git-lfs executable.

Checking the PATH: Open your terminal and type which git-lfs. If you get a "command not found" message, Git LFS is not in your system's PATH.
Adding Git LFS to PATH (Linux/macOS): You'll typically need to add the Git LFS installation directory to your PATH environment variable. This varies depending on your system and how you installed Git LFS. Consult your system's documentation or search online for instructions on modifying your PATH variable. Restart your terminal after making changes.
Adding Git LFS to PATH (Windows): You'll need to add the Git LFS installation directory to the system's PATH environment variable. This can be done through the System Properties -> Advanced system settings -> Environment Variables. Add the path to the Git LFS bin directory to the PATH variable.

3. Incorrect Git LFS Installation

A corrupted or incomplete Git LFS installation can also cause issues.

Reinstallation: The safest approach is often to completely uninstall Git LFS and reinstall it from a fresh source. Ensure you remove any old configuration files before reinstalling.

4. Git LFS is Not Initialized in the Repository

You must explicitly initialize Git LFS in your repository before using it.

Initializing: Navigate to your Git repository's root directory and run git lfs install. Then, install the LFS filters for tracked files using git lfs track "*.filetype" (replace "*.filetype" with the actual file extensions). After tracking, commit the .gitattributes file.

5. Post-Checkout Hook Issues

Sometimes, a problem with the post-checkout hook in the Git repository might prevent Git LFS from functioning correctly.

Checking and Repairing the Hook: Check the .git/hooks/post-checkout file in your repository. This script should handle checking out LFS files. If it's corrupted or missing, try restoring it from a working repository or creating a new one.

6. File Permissions Problems

Insufficient permissions to access the Git LFS installation directory or the repository itself can cause this error.

Checking Permissions: Ensure you have the necessary read and execute permissions for both the Git LFS installation directory and your Git repository.

Troubleshooting Steps

Verify Git LFS Installation: Run git lfs install in your terminal.
Check your PATH variable: Ensure the Git LFS installation directory is added to your system's PATH.
Reinstall Git LFS: Uninstall and reinstall Git LFS.
Initialize Git LFS in your repository: Run git lfs install and git lfs track "*.filetype" within the repository.
Check file permissions: Ensure you have appropriate read and write permissions.

By systematically checking these points, you can resolve the "git-lfs filter-process: 1: git-lfs: not found" error and return to smoothly managing large files with Git LFS. Remember to consult the official Git LFS documentation for more in-depth troubleshooting or for platform-specific instructions.