The command: "REN" is on Windows 12, 11, 10, .. , MS Server 2025, 2022, 2019, .. available
The examples for the command "REN"
The
`REN` (Rename) command in Windows Command Prompt is used to rename files or directories. Here are some examples of using the
`REN` command:
Example 1: Rename file:
REN OldFile.txt NewFile.txt
Description: This command renames the file
"OldFile.txt" to
"NewFile.txt".
Example 2: Rename directory:
REN OldDirectory NewDirectory
Description: Here the directory
"OldDirectory" is renamed to
"NewDirectory".
Example 3: Rename with relative paths:
REN ..\OldFolder ..\NewFolder
Description: By using relative paths, files or directories in parent or child directories can be renamed.
Example 4: Change file extension:
REN document.txt document.doc
Description: Here the file extension is changed from “Document.txt” to “Document.doc”.
Example 5: Use wildcards:
REN *.txt *.bak
Description: This command changes the file extensions of all text files in the current directory from
".txt" to
".bak".
Example 6: Rename directory with subfolders:
REN /S OldMain Directory NewMain Directory
Description: Using the
`/S` option renames the main directory including all subfolders.
It is important to note that the
`REN` command is powerful and care should be taken, especially when used with wildcards or recursively (
`/S`). It is recommended that you perform a backup before applying the command to avoid accidental data loss.
"REN" 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 "REN" command
There are a few important points to note when using the
`REN` (Rename) command in the Windows Command Prompt:
1.
Spaces and special characters: If file or directory names contain spaces or special characters, they must be enclosed in double quotes. This ensures that the
`REN` command interprets the file or directory name correctly.
REN "Old Name.txt" "New Name.txt"
2.
File Extensions: The
`REN` command can also be used to change file extensions. Make sure to use the correct syntax.
REN document.txt document.doc
3.
Wildcards and Patterns: The
`REN` command supports wildcards, which are useful for renaming multiple files at once. For example:
REN *.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.
REN /S OldMain Directory NewMain Directory
5.
Be careful when overwriting: Make sure that the new name is not already in use by an existing file or directory. The
`REN` 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
`REN` 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.
