The command: "RENAME" is on Windows 12, 11, 10, .. , MS Server 2025, 2022, 2019, .. available
The examples for the command "RENAME"
The
`RENAME` command in the Windows Command Prompt is equivalent to the
`REN` command and is also used to rename files or directories. Here are some examples of using the
`RENAME` command:
Example 1: Rename file:
RENAME OldFile.txt NewFile.txt
Description: This command renames the file
"OldFile.txt" to
"NewFile.txt".
Example 2: Rename directory:
RENAME OldDirectory NewDirectory
Description: Here the directory
"OldDirectory" is renamed to
"NewDirectory".
Example 3: Change file extension:
RENAME document.txt document.doc
Description: Here the file extension is changed from “Document.txt” to “Document.doc”.
Example 4: Use wildcards:
RENAME *.txt *.bak
Description: This command changes the file extensions of all text files in the current directory from
".txt" to
".bak".
Example 5: Recursively renaming directories:
RENAME /S OldMain Directory NewMain Directory
Description: Using the
`/S` option recursively renames the main directory including all subfolders.
It is important to note that
`RENAME` and
`REN` can usually be used interchangeably. Both commands serve the purpose of renaming files or directories. Using
`RENAME` is more of a stylistic preference, and in many cases the two commands can be used interchangeably.
"RENAME" Excerpt from Microsoft Windows Help
Microsoft Windows [Version 10.0.19045.3693]
(c) Copyright 1985-2023 Microsoft Corp.
C:\\WINDOWS>
Renames a file or files.
RENAME [drive:][path]filename1 filename2.
REN [drive:][path]filename1 filename2.
Note that you cannot specify a new drive or path for your destination file.
Important information, tips for the "RENAME" command
When using the
`RENAME` command in the Windows Command Prompt, there are a few points to note that are similar to the
`REN` command:
1.
Spaces and special characters: If file or directory names contain spaces or special characters, they should be enclosed in double quotes to ensure that the
`RENAME` command interprets the names correctly.
RENAME "Old Name.txt" "New Name.txt"
2.
File Extensions: The
`RENAME` command can also be used to change file extensions. Make sure to use the correct syntax.
RENAME document.txt document.doc
3.
Wildcards and Patterns: The
`RENAME` command supports wildcards, which are useful for renaming multiple files at once.
RENAME *.txt *.bak
This changes the file extensions of all text files in the current directory from
".txt" to
".bak".
4.
`/S` option (recursive): The
`/S` option can be used to apply the command recursively to subfolders. Be careful when using this option to avoid unwanted renames in many files and directories.
RENAME /S OldMain Directory NewMain Directory
5.
Overwriting files and directories: Make sure that the new name is not already in use by an existing file or directory. The
`RENAME` command overwrites without warning.
6.
Perform a backup: Especially when renaming multiple files or directories, it is advisable to perform a backup to avoid accidental data loss.
It is important to use the
`RENAME` command with caution, especially when using wildcards or the recursive option. Carefully check the intended files or directories to be renamed to avoid unwanted consequences.
