Rename

Updated: 02/07/2022 by Computer Hope
Rename in Windows

Rename is a changing the name of an object. For example, you could rename a file called "12345.txt" on a computer to "book.txt" so it can be identified without having to open and read its contents.

The animated picture shows how the file "logo.png" is renamed to "example.png" in Microsoft Windows. The file is right-clicked, then the rename option is selected from the context menu which appears.

Tip

While a file is highlighted in Windows, pressing F2 lets you rename.

Note

If the file is set to read-only, is in use, or you don't have permissions, you get an error when trying to rename the file.

How to rename a file from the command line

There are many ways to rename a file from a command line or command prompt, and the command used depends on what command line you're using.

How to rename a picture, folder, or another object

Almost any object (e.g., document, folder, picture, or tab) with a name can be renamed. From a Graphical User Interface (GUI) like Microsoft Windows, you can rename by right-clicking the name and choosing the Rename option. If you are trying to rename from a command line, use one of the commands mentioned earlier.

Tip

If you have a document, picture, or another file open, it cannot be renamed because it is being used. However, you can choose the Save As option to save the file as a different name.

Can rename change the contents of a file?

No. The rename command and function only rename the file name and does not edit or change the file's contents. However, if the file name uses a file extension and it's changed or removed, it changes the file association. For example, if the file was a Microsoft Word document named "hope.doc" and renamed to "hope.txt" in Windows Explorer. Microsoft Windows would attempt to open the file as a text file, which would not work because it was created in Microsoft Word.

Label, Software terms