How to batch rename files on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Batch renaming files on Windows can be accomplished through various methods, including using File Explorer, Command Prompt, and PowerShell. Each method offers unique advantages depending on the user's needs and familiarity with the tools.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the batch renaming process, ensure you have the following:
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed on your computer.
  • •Basic understanding of file management in Windows.
  • •Administrator or sufficient user permissions to modify files.
  • •Backup important data to prevent accidental loss during renaming.

Method 1: Using File Explorer

This method is best for users who prefer a graphical interface and need to rename a few files quickly.
  • •Step 1: Open File Explorer by pressing 'Windows + E' or clicking the folder icon on the taskbar.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to the folder containing the files you want to rename.
  • •Step 3: Select all files you wish to rename by holding 'Ctrl' and clicking each file or pressing 'Ctrl + A' to select all.
  • •Step 4: Right-click on the first selected file and choose 'Rename' from the context menu, or press 'F2'.
  • •Step 5: Type the new name for the first file and press 'Enter'. All selected files will be renamed with the new name followed by a number in parentheses (e.g., 'NewName (1)', 'NewName (2)').
  • •Step 6: Verify that the files have been renamed correctly by checking the file names in File Explorer.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, ensure that the files are not open or in use, and try renaming again.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 introduces a more streamlined File Explorer interface.
  • •Use the new 'Home' tab to quickly access recent folders.
  • •Right-clicking on files shows a more compact context menu, ensuring easier access to the 'Rename' option.

For Windows 10

Windows 10's File Explorer retains a classic look.
  • •You can also use the 'View' tab to change the layout of files for easier selection.
  • •Ensure that file extensions are visible by going to 'View' > 'File name extensions' to avoid confusion.

Method 2: Using Command Prompt

This method is ideal for users comfortable with command line interfaces and needing to rename multiple files with specific patterns.
  • •Step 1: Open Command Prompt by typing 'cmd' in the Windows search bar and pressing 'Enter'.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to the folder containing the files using the 'cd' command (e.g., 'cd C:\Users\YourUsername\Documents\FolderName').
  • •Step 3: Use the 'ren' command to rename files. For example, to rename all '.txt' files to '.bak', type 'ren *.txt *.bak'.
  • •Step 4: Verify the changes by typing 'dir' to list the files in the directory.
  • •Step 5: If it doesn't work, ensure you have the correct permissions and that the files are not in use.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while batch renaming files, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Access Denied' - Solution: Ensure you have the necessary permissions to modify the files.
  • •Issue: Files are not renaming as expected - Fix: Check if the files are open in another program or if they are read-only.
  • •Problem: Renaming fails for certain file types - Workaround: Use an administrator Command Prompt or check file attributes.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users looking to optimize their batch renaming process:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Alt + F4' - Closes the current window quickly.
  • •Command line: 'for %f in (*.jpg) do ren '%f' 'newname_%f'' - This command renames all .jpg files to a new format.
  • •Hidden feature: Use PowerShell for advanced renaming options, such as 'Get-ChildItem *.txt | Rename-Item -NewName { $_.Name -replace 'old','new' }'.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Using PowerShell provides more flexibility and control over batch renaming tasks, especially for large datasets.