🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 189 (from laksa087)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa189.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.lifewire.com/copy-command-2625842\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.lifewire.com/copy-command-2625842\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/copy-command-2625842","crawl_time":1775837380,"first_indexed_time":1478636792,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,lifewire!www,\/copy-command-2625842 s443","src_root_hash":"14090157370174344989","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Copy Command in CMD: Examples, Options, and Switches","meta_descriptions":["Effortlessly duplicate files in Windows using the copy command in CMD. Explore examples, options, and switches for seamless file management."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"The Download\nThe\ncopy\ncommand helps you duplicate a file and place it somewhere else on your computer.\nYou can copy multiple files at once and even rename them using the\ncopy\ncommand.\nThe\ncopy\nCommand Prompt command\nduplicates a file, allowing you to store the copy in a location of your choice.\nThis command lets you copy a file using its specific name and\nfile extension\nor employ a wildcard to copy multiple files simultaneously, regardless of file names or extensions. It offers options for verifying successful file copies and suppressing overwrite prompts for files with the same name.\nCopy Command Availability\nCopy Command Options (Windows 11 Command Prompt).\nThe copy command is accessible from the\nCommand Prompt\nin\nWindows 11\n,\nWindows 10\n,\nWindows 8\n,\nWindows 7\n,\nWindows Vista\n, and\nWindows XP\n. It's also available in the\nAdvanced Startup Options\nand\nSystem Recovery Options\nrepair\/recovery menus.\nCertain copy command options and\nsyntax\nmay vary based on the operating system.\nCopy Command Syntax\nThe command follows this general format:\ncopy \n[\n\/d\n] [\n\/v\n] [\n\/n\n] [\n\/y \n| \n\/-y\n] [\n\/z\n] [\n\/l\n] [\n\/a\n | \n\/b\n] \nsource\n [\n\/a\n | \n\/b\n] [\n+\n \nsource\n [\n\/a\n | \n\/b\n] [\n+\n ...]] [\ndestination \n[\n\/a\n | \n\/b\n]] [\n\/?\n]\nCopy Command Options\nItem\nExplanation\n\/d\nAllows the destination file to be created decrypted.\n\/v\nVerifies that new files are written correctly.\n\/n\nUses short file name, if available, when copying a file with a non-8dot3 name.\n\/y\nSuppresses confirmation prompts to overwrite the destination file if it's the same name as the source file.\n\/-y\nShows confirmation prompts to overwrite a file if the source file name is identical to the destination file name.\n\/z\nCopies\nnetworked\nfiles in restartable mode.\n\/l\nCopies the link to the source instead of the actual file that the source points to. This is only relevant if the source is a symbolic link.\n\/a\nIndicates an ASCII text file.\n\/b\nIndicates a binary file.\nsource \nThis is the location and name of the file you want to copy. The\nsource\nmay not be a folder, and you may not use wildcard characters (the asterisk).\ndestination\nThis is the location and\/or file name to which the file specified in the\nsource\nshould be copied\n\/?\nUse the \nhelp switch\n with the copy command to show detailed help about the command's several options.\nYou can append files by selecting several source files but specifying only one\ndestination\nfile.\nCopy Command Examples\nHere are several examples of how to use the copy command:\nCopy to a Different Folder\ncopy Z:\\Software\\program.iso C:\\Users\\Jon\\Downloads\\Programs\\\nThis example copies \nprogram.iso\n from the \nZ:\n drive to the user's\nPrograms\n folder.\nTake note of the space between these commands. It's not immediately obvious, but the only spaces in this copy command example are after\ncopy\nand between the source and destination files.\nCopy and Rename\ncopy Y:\\install\\j93n.exe Y:\\more\\m1284.msi\nYou can use the copy command to rename a file and change its file extension. In this example, the j93n.exe file is copied to a new folder on the Y: drive as m1284.msi.\nThis isn't a\nfile conversion\ntechnique (i.e., the\nEXE\nfile isn't actually being converted to\nMSI\n). Instead, it's a way to make an identical copy but with the\ndestination\nfile saved under a different name and in a different folder.\ncopy D:\\i386\\atapi.sy_ C:\\Windows\\atapi.sys\nIn the example above, the \natapi.sy\nfile, located in the i386 folder on the Windows XP installation CD, is copied to the C:\\Windows directory as atapi.sys.\nUnlike the Y: drive example, this one is more realistic since copying files from a disc is a common practice when fixing specific Windows problems.\nCopy to Current Path\ncopy D:\\readme.htm\nIn this example, the copy command has no specified destination, so the readme.htm file is copied to the directory from which you typed the copy command.\nFor instance, if you type copy d:\\readme.htm from the C:\\Windows> prompt, the HTM file will be copied to C:\\Windows.\nCopy Only Certain File Types\ncopy \/y \/v C:\\Users\\Jon\\Downloads\\*.mp3 C:\\Users\\Jon\\Music\\DownloadedMusic\\\nThis command copies all MP3 files (*.mp3) from the\nDownloads\nfolder to the\nMusic\\DownloadedMusic\n\\\nfolder. Ensure that every file is copied, even if one with the same name already exists in\nDownloadedMusic\n, by using the \/y switch. Verify the copy with the \/v switch to see if the files were successfully copied or if an error occurred during the process.\nA folder must already exist in the destination location before the copy command can transfer files to it. Create new folders in Command Prompt with the\nmkdir\ncommand.\nMerge Files Into One\ncopy Z:\\file1.txt+Z:\\file2.txt+Z:\\file3.txt Z:\\combined.txt\nThis command will merge three \nTXT\n files into a new file called combined.txt. Each file to be merged should be separated by a plus sign (+) without spaces.\nYou can also use the asterisk to append multiple files. For example, replace individual .txt entries with Z:\\*.txt to merge every TXT file from the Z: drive into one.\nCopy Related Commands\nThis command is similar to the\nxcopy command\n, but unlike the copy command, xcopy also works on folders.\nIt's not necessary to use a command if you'd rather\ncopy a file in Windows using File Explorer\n.\nWas this page helpful?\nThanks for letting us know!\nGet the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day\nSubscribe\nTell us why!","attrs_markdown":"\n\nG\n\nA\n\nS\n\nREGULAR\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/copy-command-2625842#main)\n\nMenu\n\n[Lifewire](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/)\n\nTech for Humans\n\n- [NEWS](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/news-4795879)\n  NEWS\n  \n  [See All News](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/news-4795879)\n  \n  [![A Dell Alienware gaming desktop with visible internal components and illuminated lighting details](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/6tlrmGPRoNMYWk7Ll7Ha8d0thcE=\/210x138\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/lifewire-dell-alien-gaming-desktop-4c37ca4078034a7290599d069c6f6edc.jpg) Our Review of the Alienware Aurora Gaming PC—and it's \\$550 off Right Now](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/dell-alienware-aurora-gaming-desktop-review-11932684)\n  \n  [![A lineup of Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra smartphones showing their camera modules and styluses](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/YxWqaQpqC6j-1FZsYmJSprkBwNo=\/210x138\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/samsung-galaxy-s26-ultra-5eca4675c4e34040a4a71eded5b6df2b.jpg) Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra Is Faster, Smarter, and More Private](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/samsung-galaxy-s26-officially-revealed-11914339)\n  \n  [![Closeup of a smartphone focusing on its camera lenses and side buttons](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/NZJtV8Ha6Ru-yXyDRJw6bWYXwTg=\/210x138\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/samsung-galaxy-s26-closeup-7f23fa1764bb4787a2f12170fe2c1727.jpg) Galaxy S26 Preorders Start at \\$900 Off on Verizon](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/galaxy-preorders-verizon-11914269)\n  \n  [![A robot pointing at paper next to a human hand](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/jMjLUktZrSktHuEkzEM6Y_RTY3Y=\/210x138\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/GettyImages-2204928862-a400a24f13bc45038cfce9bbf11ebc88.jpg) This Service Replicates Your Handwriting With AI](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/this-service-replicates-your-handwriting-with-ai-11914000)\n  \n  [![Numerous green three-dot chat icons on a field with a central prominent one](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/hidSJjFloRtvbPSnFUxqgMyCLuY=\/210x138\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/GettyImages-2227030763-486b0ec92c844875818c4f30e028f1c1.jpg) WhatsApp Could Soon Change How You Send Messages](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/whatsapp-scheduled-messages-11912817)\n  \n  [![Smartphone displaying a listening interface on the screen part of a virtual assistant feature](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/S7YuMi9C2nKzbF5JA035-T17pxs=\/210x138\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/new-bixby-oneui-8.5-983d3693fec7422095bb185832e53f7f.jpg) Bixby Update Improves Conversation](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/bixby-update-improves-conversation-11912019)\n  \n  [![A person with facial recognition markers within a focus frame](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/NhEiPdlt2qnJ5936bvcMY_lviAg=\/210x138\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/GettyImages-1047393260-c6c2ce0cabcd4626a1dc9775d59be25a.jpg) Parents Should Understand What Facial Age Checks Really Mean](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/biometric-id-rollout-kids-apps-11909555)\n  \n  [![Two hands holding smartphones against a clouded sky backdrop](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/KCl4jhb5jRPp7_0OuE3HTIfLHck=\/210x138\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/GettyImages-489921465-b23b409d369b47adb85fc448b472985d.jpg) Pixel 9 Quick Share Now Works With AirDrop](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/pixel-9-airdrop-support-11908564)\n  \n  [![Side view of a smart treadmill with a sleek design and a tablet holder on the front console](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/KH4c9ArGccL54eEfbFffCS1EOww=\/210x138\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/urevo-cybermega-smart-treadmill-profile-74f0dae40c1c4ea2934db9929d1a4906.jpg) This Smart Treadmill Is Built for Marathon Training](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/smart-treadmill-for-marathon-training-11908035)\n- [WHAT TO BUY](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/best-products-4781319)\n  WHAT TO BUY\n  \n  - 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Then I Started Paying Attention](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/samsung-buds4-pro-testing-insights-11913581)\n- [![Closeup of a smartphone focusing on its camera lenses and side buttons]() ![Closeup of a smartphone focusing on its camera lenses and side buttons](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/VhNLkJvZdC0avfPnL22T4prd8o0=\/800x533\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/samsung-galaxy-s26-closeup-7f23fa1764bb4787a2f12170fe2c1727.jpg) 5 Galaxy S26 Preorders Start Today at Verizon With Up to \\$1,100 Off](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/galaxy-preorders-verizon-11914269)\n\n- [Software & Apps](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/software-and-apps-4781541) \\>\n- [Windows](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-4781566) \\>\n\n79\n\n79 people found this article helpful\n# Copy Command\nExplore examples, options, and techniques to effectively use the copy command in different Windows environments\n\nBy\n\n[Tim Fisher](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/tim-fisher-2617714)\n\n![Photo of Tim Fisher, Lifewire GM and Writer]()\n\n![Photo of Tim Fisher, Lifewire GM and Writer](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/Uhck4bfpAFVwHvQ4_LqL4CLRD-k=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/tim-fisher-5820c8345f9b581c0b5a63cf.jpg)\n\n[Tim Fisher](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/tim-fisher-2617714)\n\nSenior Vice President & Group General Manager, Tech & Sustainability\n\n- Emporia State University\n\nTim Fisher has more than 30 years' of professional technology experience. He's been writing about tech for more than two decades and serves as the SVP and General Manager of Lifewire.\n\n[lifewire's editorial guidelines](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/about-us-5081224#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n\nUpdated on August 1, 2025\n\nIn This Article\n\nView All\n\nIn This Article\n\n- [Copy Command Availability](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/copy-command-2625842#toc-copy-command-availability)\n- [Syntax and Options](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/copy-command-2625842#toc-copy-command-syntax)\n- [Examples](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/copy-command-2625842#toc-copy-command-examples)\n- [Extra: Related Commands](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/copy-command-2625842#toc-copy-related-commands)\n\nClose\n\n### The Download\n- The **copy** command helps you duplicate a file and place it somewhere else on your computer.\n- You can copy multiple files at once and even rename them using the **copy** command.\n\nThe [copyCommand Prompt command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/list-of-command-prompt-commands-4092302) duplicates a file, allowing you to store the copy in a location of your choice.\n\nThis command lets you copy a file using its specific name and [file extension](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/what-is-a-file-extension-2625879) or employ a wildcard to copy multiple files simultaneously, regardless of file names or extensions. It offers options for verifying successful file copies and suppressing overwrite prompts for files with the same name.\n\n## Copy Command Availability\n![Copy command options in Windows 11 Command Prompt]()\n\n![Copy command options in Windows 11 Command Prompt](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/u_vPSuTBVGKs5pa9znHFwBGVuTU=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/copy-command-help-windows-11-command-prompt-69fcdda61a5449dd98d6c74643e07311.png)\n\nCopy Command Options (Windows 11 Command Prompt).\n\nThe copy command is accessible from the [Command Prompt](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/command-prompt-2625840) in [Windows 11](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-11-5188930), [Windows 10](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-10-2626217), [Windows 8](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-8-2626235), [Windows 7](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-7-2626265), [Windows Vista](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-vista-2626311), and [Windows XP](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-xp-2626354). It's also available in the [Advanced Startup Options](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/advanced-startup-options-2625805) and [System Recovery Options](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/system-recovery-options-2626021) repair\/recovery menus.\n\nCertain copy command options and [syntax](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/what-is-syntax-2626014) may vary based on the operating system.\n\n## Copy Command Syntax\nThe command follows this general format:\n\n**copy** \\[**\/d**\\] \\[**\/v**\\] \\[**\/n**\\] \\[**\/y** \\| **\/-y**\\] \\[**\/z**\\] \\[**\/l**\\] \\[**\/a** \\| **\/b**\\] *source* \\[**\/a** \\| **\/b**\\] \\[**\\+** *source* \\[**\/a** \\| **\/b**\\] \\[**\\+** ...\\]\\] \\[*destination* \\[**\/a** \\| **\/b**\\]\\] \\[**\/?**\\]\n\nRefer to [How to Read Command Syntax](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/how-to-read-command-syntax-2618082) if you need help interpreting the copy command syntax outlined above or in the table below.\n\n| Copy Command Options |   |\n|---|---|\n| **Item** | **Explanation** |\n| **\/d** | Allows the destination file to be created decrypted. |\n| **\/v** | Verifies that new files are written correctly. |\n| **\/n** | Uses short file name, if available, when copying a file with a non-8dot3 name. |\n| **\/y** | Suppresses confirmation prompts to overwrite the destination file if it's the same name as the source file. |\n| **\/-y** | Shows confirmation prompts to overwrite a file if the source file name is identical to the destination file name. |\n| **\/z** | Copies [networked](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/what-is-computer-networking-816249) files in restartable mode. |\n| **\/l** | Copies the link to the source instead of the actual file that the source points to. This is only relevant if the source is a symbolic link. |\n| **\/a** | Indicates an ASCII text file. |\n| **\/b** | Indicates a binary file. |\n| *source* | This is the location and name of the file you want to copy. The *source* may not be a folder, and you may not use wildcard characters (the asterisk). |\n| *destination* | This is the location and\/or file name to which the file specified in the *source* should be copied |\n| **\/?** | Use the [help switch](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/help-switch-2625896) with the copy command to show detailed help about the command's several options. |\n\nYou can append files by selecting several source files but specifying only one *destination* file.\n\n## Copy Command Examples\nHere are several examples of how to use the copy command:\n\n### Copy to a Different Folder\n```\n copy Z:\\Software\\program.iso C:\\Users\\Jon\\Downloads\\Programs\\\n```\nThis example copies *program.iso* from the *Z:* drive to the user's *Programs* folder.\n\nTake note of the space between these commands. It's not immediately obvious, but the only spaces in this copy command example are after **copy** and between the source and destination files.\n\n### Copy and Rename\n```\n copy Y:\\install\\j93n.exe Y:\\more\\m1284.msi\n```\nYou can use the copy command to rename a file and change its file extension. In this example, the j93n.exe file is copied to a new folder on the Y: drive as m1284.msi.\n\nThis isn't a [file conversion](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/free-file-converter-software-and-online-services-2626121) technique (i.e., the [EXE](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/exe-file-2622732) file isn't actually being converted to [MSI](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/msi-file-4142884)). Instead, it's a way to make an identical copy but with the *destination* file saved under a different name and in a different folder.\n```\n copy D:\\i386\\atapi.sy_ C:\\Windows\\atapi.sys\n```\nIn the example above, the *atapi.sy* file, located in the i386 folder on the Windows XP installation CD, is copied to the C:\\\\Windows directory as atapi.sys.\n\nUnlike the Y: drive example, this one is more realistic since copying files from a disc is a common practice when fixing specific Windows problems.\n\n### Copy to Current Path\n```\n copy D:\\readme.htm\n```\nIn this example, the copy command has no specified destination, so the readme.htm file is copied to the directory from which you typed the copy command.\n\nFor instance, if you type copy d:\\\\readme.htm from the C:\\\\Windows\\> prompt, the HTM file will be copied to C:\\\\Windows.\n\n### Copy Only Certain File Types\n```\n copy \/y \/v C:\\Users\\Jon\\Downloads\\*.mp3 C:\\Users\\Jon\\Music\\DownloadedMusic\\\n```\nThis command copies all MP3 files (\\*.mp3) from the *Downloads* folder to the *Music\\\\DownloadedMusic*\\\\folder. Ensure that every file is copied, even if one with the same name already exists in *DownloadedMusic*, by using the \/y switch. Verify the copy with the \/v switch to see if the files were successfully copied or if an error occurred during the process.\n\nA folder must already exist in the destination location before the copy command can transfer files to it. Create new folders in Command Prompt with the **mkdir** command.\n\n### Merge Files Into One\n```\n copy Z:\\file1.txt+Z:\\file2.txt+Z:\\file3.txt Z:\\combined.txt\n```\nThis command will merge three [TXT](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/txt-text-file-4150707) files into a new file called combined.txt. Each file to be merged should be separated by a plus sign (+) without spaces.\n\nYou can also use the asterisk to append multiple files. For example, replace individual .txt entries with Z:\\\\\\*.txt to merge every TXT file from the Z: drive into one.\n\n## Copy Related Commands\nThis command is similar to the [xcopy command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/xcopy-command-2618103), but unlike the copy command, xcopy also works on folders.\n\nIt's not necessary to use a command if you'd rather [copy a file in Windows using File Explorer](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/how-do-i-copy-a-file-in-windows-2619210).\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for letting us know\\!\n\nGet the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day\n\n[Subscribe](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/copy-command-2625842)\n\nTell us why\\!\n\nOther\n\nNot enough details\n\nHard to understand\n\nMore from Lifewire\n\n- [![Zip file format]() ![Zip file format](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/z5nAxaTAXbQGb_QVGVJhjHEZ52o=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/File-Format-Zip-Label-c778dd481b1c4e6887dc8a5934680869.jpg) How to Unzip Files in Windows 11](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/unzip-files-windows-11-8425832)\n- [![Software Developer Using Transparent Computer Screen At Office]() ![Software Developer Using Transparent Computer Screen At Office](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/ucVjU2Dl-lJEL9yEsr1ixSoN3XE=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/software-developer-using-transparent-computer-screen-at-office-746096729-59a2fa80845b340011268cdd.jpg) Net Command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/net-command-2618094)\n- [![The More command in a Windows 10 Command Prompt]() ![The More command in a Windows 10 Command Prompt](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/l88MIYWflOj7nDqtKnQjlQz_nM8=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/more-command-windows-10-5a68bd3b1f4e1300399b0c0a.png) More Command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/more-command-4041467)\n- [![DEL command in Windows 10]() ![DEL command in Windows 10](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/UN5uQLf5CV2xpQH9vYW3q4ruXfg=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/del-command-windows-10-92fd8cc5f79546178401998d50c37a34.png) Del Command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/delete-command-2625859)\n- [![rename command example in Windows 11 command prompt]() ![rename command example in Windows 11 command prompt](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/cZ4brMnBkIQtHkTcjxhv-b8HPY8=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rename-command-cd8957c87ced4a0cbb6568ccc8f46a02.png) Rename Command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/rename-command-2625993)\n- [![Person using the dir command on Windows Command Prompt]() ![Person using the dir command on Windows Command Prompt](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/RfZHLuCJpNUXq808Ui0cDskd9ZQ=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/dir-command-4050018-eabe1ebb53aa4988b830166ae2e3d350.png) Master the Dir Command in Windows Command Prompt](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/dir-command-4050018)\n- [![help command in Windows 10 command prompt]() ![help command in Windows 10 command prompt](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/KQUZM_F-viNFV1fIi4RgJsA8saU=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/help-command-windows-10-5235fec0871648538c84a171a37b33fd.png) Help Command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/help-command-2618092)\n- [![Screenshot of the format command in Windows 10 Command Prompt]() ![Screenshot of the format command in Windows 10 Command Prompt](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/blgxJ93JKaBkSWQL8wrQlGDuNU4=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/format-command-prompt-747f5fb312e84087b7473d6ba9bc42db.png) Format Command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/format-command-2618091)\n\n- [![Psexec ipconfig command in Windows 10 Command Prompt]() ![Psexec ipconfig command in Windows 10 Command Prompt](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/FZ6Wqpn3BCC8XVT4Ip5YQ8odO00=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/psexec-ipconfig-command-5c6ef8dc46e0fb0001b68174.png) PsExec: What It Is and How to Use It](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/psexec-4587631)\n- [![Someone using the attrib command on a PC]() ![Someone using the attrib command on a PC](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/aXOlMrPT6oszodZXzCvRTjjeM9U=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/attrib-command-2625802-6e1354ade59b4b42bfd068641ad6318e.png) Attrib Command (Examples, Options, Switches, and More)](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/attrib-command-2625802)\n- [![diskpart help command results]() ![diskpart help command results](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/e9k5rz5Jx_m0r2dQm324Gt2GXXs=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/diskpart-command-help-ad19de56d02d43a6a37c13e1264b80bb.png) Diskpart Command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/diskpart-command-2625864)\n- [![Command line interface against a green background]() ![Command line interface against a green background](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/-QYV1jUyfQke7vOQA-pR6Wq0WUM=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/GettyImages-1447055424-73fc21987ac14625a3495071416ab3c6.jpg) Mastering Directory Changes in CMD: A Step-by-Step Guide](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/change-directories-in-command-prompt-5185508)\n- [![Graphic image of computer code with bands of blue and purple color]() ![Graphic image of computer code with bands of blue and purple color](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/Xo-ldzG0UAh8EEM3lo-G6AlHqTo=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/ai-codes-coding-97077-5c30234d46e0fb0001323587.jpg) Expand Command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/expand-command-2625873)\n- [![Command Prompt in Windows 11 terminal]() ![Command Prompt in Windows 11 terminal](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/7fvb55WtKEzCn5i4S8FglKB6eAs=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/terminal-command-prompt-windows-11-5b5ff2747dbe46f985d98b2d60b3ddb2.png) Master Every Command Prompt Command: Comprehensive Windows Guide](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/list-of-command-prompt-commands-4092302)\n- [![SFC command in Windows 11]() ![SFC command in Windows 11](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/jc09KWjouhmoxHSgTTe-1vRD_tA=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sfc-help-command-7a66384d0613497593aa2f429a56e254.png) Sfc Command (System File Checker)](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/sfc-command-system-file-checker-2626020)\n- [![Vol command in Windows 11]() ![Vol command in Windows 11](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/thmb\/2Bu2Fqx5aISlfXcvJjucBXayzYw=\/360x240\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/vol-command-windows-11-terminal-8cd05014e4b94bd5a9592ccd24077d39.png) Vol Command Examples and Options](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/vol-command-2618102)\n\n[Lifewire Tech for Humans](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/)\n\nFollow Us\n\n- [NEWS](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/news-4795879)\n- [WHAT TO BUY](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/best-products-4781319)\n- [HOW TO](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/computers-laptops-and-tablets-4781146)\n- [FEATURES](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-4781566)\n- [ABOUT US](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/about-us-5081224)\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/about-us-5081224)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-privacy)\n- [Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/about-us-5081224#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n- [Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-termsofservice)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/careers)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/advertising)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/about-us-5081224#toc-contact-us)\n\nLifewire is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\nNewsletter Sign Up","attrs_readable_markdown":"### The Download\n- The **copy** command helps you duplicate a file and place it somewhere else on your computer.\n- You can copy multiple files at once and even rename them using the **copy** command.\n\nThe [copyCommand Prompt command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/list-of-command-prompt-commands-4092302) duplicates a file, allowing you to store the copy in a location of your choice.\n\nThis command lets you copy a file using its specific name and [file extension](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/what-is-a-file-extension-2625879) or employ a wildcard to copy multiple files simultaneously, regardless of file names or extensions. It offers options for verifying successful file copies and suppressing overwrite prompts for files with the same name.\n\n## Copy Command Availability\nCopy Command Options (Windows 11 Command Prompt).\n\nThe copy command is accessible from the [Command Prompt](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/command-prompt-2625840) in [Windows 11](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-11-5188930), [Windows 10](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-10-2626217), [Windows 8](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-8-2626235), [Windows 7](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-7-2626265), [Windows Vista](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-vista-2626311), and [Windows XP](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/windows-xp-2626354). It's also available in the [Advanced Startup Options](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/advanced-startup-options-2625805) and [System Recovery Options](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/system-recovery-options-2626021) repair\/recovery menus.\n\nCertain copy command options and [syntax](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/what-is-syntax-2626014) may vary based on the operating system.\n\n## Copy Command Syntax\nThe command follows this general format:\n\n**copy** \\[**\/d**\\] \\[**\/v**\\] \\[**\/n**\\] \\[**\/y** \\| **\/-y**\\] \\[**\/z**\\] \\[**\/l**\\] \\[**\/a** \\| **\/b**\\] *source* \\[**\/a** \\| **\/b**\\] \\[**\\+** *source* \\[**\/a** \\| **\/b**\\] \\[**\\+** ...\\]\\] \\[*destination* \\[**\/a** \\| **\/b**\\]\\] \\[**\/?**\\]\n\n| Copy Command Options |   |\n|---|---|\n| **Item** | **Explanation** |\n| **\/d** | Allows the destination file to be created decrypted. |\n| **\/v** | Verifies that new files are written correctly. |\n| **\/n** | Uses short file name, if available, when copying a file with a non-8dot3 name. |\n| **\/y** | Suppresses confirmation prompts to overwrite the destination file if it's the same name as the source file. |\n| **\/-y** | Shows confirmation prompts to overwrite a file if the source file name is identical to the destination file name. |\n| **\/z** | Copies [networked](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/what-is-computer-networking-816249) files in restartable mode. |\n| **\/l** | Copies the link to the source instead of the actual file that the source points to. This is only relevant if the source is a symbolic link. |\n| **\/a** | Indicates an ASCII text file. |\n| **\/b** | Indicates a binary file. |\n| *source* | This is the location and name of the file you want to copy. The *source* may not be a folder, and you may not use wildcard characters (the asterisk). |\n| *destination* | This is the location and\/or file name to which the file specified in the *source* should be copied |\n| **\/?** | Use the [help switch](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/help-switch-2625896) with the copy command to show detailed help about the command's several options. |\n\nYou can append files by selecting several source files but specifying only one *destination* file.\n\n## Copy Command Examples\nHere are several examples of how to use the copy command:\n\n### Copy to a Different Folder\n```\n copy Z:\\Software\\program.iso C:\\Users\\Jon\\Downloads\\Programs\\\n```\nThis example copies *program.iso* from the *Z:* drive to the user's *Programs* folder.\n\nTake note of the space between these commands. It's not immediately obvious, but the only spaces in this copy command example are after **copy** and between the source and destination files.\n\n### Copy and Rename\n```\n copy Y:\\install\\j93n.exe Y:\\more\\m1284.msi\n```\nYou can use the copy command to rename a file and change its file extension. In this example, the j93n.exe file is copied to a new folder on the Y: drive as m1284.msi.\n\nThis isn't a [file conversion](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/free-file-converter-software-and-online-services-2626121) technique (i.e., the [EXE](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/exe-file-2622732) file isn't actually being converted to [MSI](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/msi-file-4142884)). Instead, it's a way to make an identical copy but with the *destination* file saved under a different name and in a different folder.\n```\n copy D:\\i386\\atapi.sy_ C:\\Windows\\atapi.sys\n```\nIn the example above, the *atapi.sy* file, located in the i386 folder on the Windows XP installation CD, is copied to the C:\\\\Windows directory as atapi.sys.\n\nUnlike the Y: drive example, this one is more realistic since copying files from a disc is a common practice when fixing specific Windows problems.\n\n### Copy to Current Path\n```\n copy D:\\readme.htm\n```\nIn this example, the copy command has no specified destination, so the readme.htm file is copied to the directory from which you typed the copy command.\n\nFor instance, if you type copy d:\\\\readme.htm from the C:\\\\Windows\\> prompt, the HTM file will be copied to C:\\\\Windows.\n\n### Copy Only Certain File Types\n```\n copy \/y \/v C:\\Users\\Jon\\Downloads\\*.mp3 C:\\Users\\Jon\\Music\\DownloadedMusic\\\n```\nThis command copies all MP3 files (\\*.mp3) from the *Downloads* folder to the *Music\\\\DownloadedMusic*\\\\folder. Ensure that every file is copied, even if one with the same name already exists in *DownloadedMusic*, by using the \/y switch. Verify the copy with the \/v switch to see if the files were successfully copied or if an error occurred during the process.\n\nA folder must already exist in the destination location before the copy command can transfer files to it. Create new folders in Command Prompt with the **mkdir** command.\n\n### Merge Files Into One\n```\n copy Z:\\file1.txt+Z:\\file2.txt+Z:\\file3.txt Z:\\combined.txt\n```\nThis command will merge three [TXT](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/txt-text-file-4150707) files into a new file called combined.txt. Each file to be merged should be separated by a plus sign (+) without spaces.\n\nYou can also use the asterisk to append multiple files. For example, replace individual .txt entries with Z:\\\\\\*.txt to merge every TXT file from the Z: drive into one.\n\n## Copy Related Commands\nThis command is similar to the [xcopy command](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/xcopy-command-2618103), but unlike the copy command, xcopy also works on folders.\n\nIt's not necessary to use a command if you'd rather [copy a file in Windows using File Explorer](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/how-do-i-copy-a-file-in-windows-2619210).\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for letting us know\\!\n\nGet the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day\n\n[Subscribe](https:\/\/www.lifewire.com\/copy-command-2625842)\n\nTell us why\\!","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	The Download The copy command helps you duplicate a file and place it somewhere else on your computer. You can copy multiple files at once and even rename them using the copy command. The copy Command Prompt command duplicates a file, allowing you to store the copy in a location of your choice. This command lets you copy a file using its specific name and file extension or employ a wildcard to copy multiple files simultaneously, regardless of file names or extensions. It offers options for verifying successful file copies and suppressing overwrite prompts for files with the same name. Copy Command Availability Copy Command Options (Windows 11 Command Prompt). The copy command is accessible from the Command Prompt in Windows 11 , Windows 10 , Windows 8 , Windows 7 , Windows Vista , and Windows XP . It's also available in the Advanced Startup Options and System Recovery Options repair/recovery menus. Certain copy command options and syntax may vary based on the operating system. Copy Command Syntax The command follows this general format: copy [ /d ] [ /v ] [ /n ] [ /y \| /-y ] [ /z ] [ /l ] [ /a \| /b ] source [ /a \| /b ] [ + source [ /a \| /b ] [ + ...]] [ destination [ /a \| /b ]] [ /? ] Copy Command Options Item Explanation /d Allows the destination file to be created decrypted. /v Verifies that new files are written correctly. /n Uses short file name, if available, when copying a file with a non-8dot3 name. /y Suppresses confirmation prompts to overwrite the destination file if it's the same name as the source file. /-y Shows confirmation prompts to overwrite a file if the source file name is identical to the destination file name. /z Copies networked files in restartable mode. /l Copies the link to the source instead of the actual file that the source points to. This is only relevant if the source is a symbolic link. /a Indicates an ASCII text file. /b Indicates a binary file. source This is the location and name of the file you want to copy. The source may not be a folder, and you may not use wildcard characters (the asterisk). destination This is the location and/or file name to which the file specified in the source should be copied /? Use the help switch with the copy command to show detailed help about the command's several options. You can append files by selecting several source files but specifying only one destination file. Copy Command Examples Here are several examples of how to use the copy command: Copy to a Different Folder copy Z:\Software\program.iso C:\Users\Jon\Downloads\Programs\ This example copies program.iso from the Z: drive to the user's Programs folder. Take note of the space between these commands. It's not immediately obvious, but the only spaces in this copy command example are after copy and between the source and destination files. Copy and Rename copy Y:\install\j93n.exe Y:\more\m1284.msi You can use the copy command to rename a file and change its file extension. In this example, the j93n.exe file is copied to a new folder on the Y: drive as m1284.msi. This isn't a file conversion technique (i.e., the EXE file isn't actually being converted to MSI ). Instead, it's a way to make an identical copy but with the destination file saved under a different name and in a different folder. copy D:\i386\atapi.sy_ C:\Windows\atapi.sys In the example above, the atapi.sy file, located in the i386 folder on the Windows XP installation CD, is copied to the C:\Windows directory as atapi.sys. Unlike the Y: drive example, this one is more realistic since copying files from a disc is a common practice when fixing specific Windows problems. Copy to Current Path copy D:\readme.htm In this example, the copy command has no specified destination, so the readme.htm file is copied to the directory from which you typed the copy command. For instance, if you type copy d:\readme.htm from the C:\Windows> prompt, the HTM file will be copied to C:\Windows. Copy Only Certain File Types copy /y /v C:\Users\Jon\Downloads\.mp3 C:\Users\Jon\Music\DownloadedMusic\ This command copies all MP3 files (.mp3) from the Downloads folder to the Music\DownloadedMusic \ folder. Ensure that every file is copied, even if one with the same name already exists in DownloadedMusic , by using the /y switch. Verify the copy with the /v switch to see if the files were successfully copied or if an error occurred during the process. A folder must already exist in the destination location before the copy command can transfer files to it. Create new folders in Command Prompt with the mkdir command. Merge Files Into One copy Z:\file1.txt+Z:\file2.txt+Z:\file3.txt Z:\combined.txt This command will merge three TXT files into a new file called combined.txt. Each file to be merged should be separated by a plus sign (+) without spaces. You can also use the asterisk to append multiple files. For example, replace individual .txt entries with Z:\*.txt to merge every TXT file from the Z: drive into one. Copy Related Commands This command is similar to the xcopy command , but unlike the copy command, xcopy also works on folders. It's not necessary to use a command if you'd rather copy a file in Windows using File Explorer . Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why!
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Then I Started Paying Attention](https://www.lifewire.com/samsung-buds4-pro-testing-insights-11913581) - [![Closeup of a smartphone focusing on its camera lenses and side buttons]() ![Closeup of a smartphone focusing on its camera lenses and side buttons](https://www.lifewire.com/thmb/VhNLkJvZdC0avfPnL22T4prd8o0=/800x533/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/samsung-galaxy-s26-closeup-7f23fa1764bb4787a2f12170fe2c1727.jpg) 5 Galaxy S26 Preorders Start Today at Verizon With Up to \$1,100 Off](https://www.lifewire.com/galaxy-preorders-verizon-11914269) - [Software & Apps](https://www.lifewire.com/software-and-apps-4781541) \> - [Windows](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-4781566) \> 79 79 people found this article helpful # Copy Command Explore examples, options, and techniques to effectively use the copy command in different Windows environments By [Tim Fisher](https://www.lifewire.com/tim-fisher-2617714) ![Photo of Tim Fisher, Lifewire GM and Writer]() ![Photo of Tim Fisher, Lifewire GM and Writer](https://www.lifewire.com/thmb/Uhck4bfpAFVwHvQ4_LqL4CLRD-k=/200x200/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/tim-fisher-5820c8345f9b581c0b5a63cf.jpg) [Tim Fisher](https://www.lifewire.com/tim-fisher-2617714) Senior Vice President & Group General Manager, Tech & Sustainability - Emporia State University Tim Fisher has more than 30 years' of professional technology experience. He's been writing about tech for more than two decades and serves as the SVP and General Manager of Lifewire. [lifewire's editorial guidelines](https://www.lifewire.com/about-us-5081224#toc-editorial-guidelines) Updated on August 1, 2025 In This Article View All In This Article - [Copy Command Availability](https://www.lifewire.com/copy-command-2625842#toc-copy-command-availability) - [Syntax and Options](https://www.lifewire.com/copy-command-2625842#toc-copy-command-syntax) - [Examples](https://www.lifewire.com/copy-command-2625842#toc-copy-command-examples) - [Extra: Related Commands](https://www.lifewire.com/copy-command-2625842#toc-copy-related-commands) Close ### The Download - The copy command helps you duplicate a file and place it somewhere else on your computer. - You can copy multiple files at once and even rename them using the copy command. The [copyCommand Prompt command](https://www.lifewire.com/list-of-command-prompt-commands-4092302) duplicates a file, allowing you to store the copy in a location of your choice. This command lets you copy a file using its specific name and [file extension](https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-a-file-extension-2625879) or employ a wildcard to copy multiple files simultaneously, regardless of file names or extensions. It offers options for verifying successful file copies and suppressing overwrite prompts for files with the same name. ## Copy Command Availability ![Copy command options in Windows 11 Command Prompt]() ![Copy command options in Windows 11 Command Prompt](https://www.lifewire.com/thmb/u_vPSuTBVGKs5pa9znHFwBGVuTU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/copy-command-help-windows-11-command-prompt-69fcdda61a5449dd98d6c74643e07311.png) Copy Command Options (Windows 11 Command Prompt). The copy command is accessible from the [Command Prompt](https://www.lifewire.com/command-prompt-2625840) in [Windows 11](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-11-5188930), [Windows 10](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-10-2626217), [Windows 8](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-8-2626235), [Windows 7](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-7-2626265), [Windows Vista](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-vista-2626311), and [Windows XP](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-xp-2626354). It's also available in the [Advanced Startup Options](https://www.lifewire.com/advanced-startup-options-2625805) and [System Recovery Options](https://www.lifewire.com/system-recovery-options-2626021) repair/recovery menus. Certain copy command options and [syntax](https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-syntax-2626014) may vary based on the operating system. ## Copy Command Syntax The command follows this general format: copy \[/d\] \[/v\] \[/n\] \[/y \\| /-y\] \[/z\] \[/l\] \[/a \\| /b\] source \[/a \\| /b\] \[\+ source \[/a \\| /b\] \[\+ ...\]\] \[destination \[/a \\| /b\]\] \[/?\] Refer to [How to Read Command Syntax](https://www.lifewire.com/how-to-read-command-syntax-2618082) if you need help interpreting the copy command syntax outlined above or in the table below. \| Copy Command Options \| \| \|---\|---\| \| Item \| Explanation \| \| /d \| Allows the destination file to be created decrypted. \| \| /v \| Verifies that new files are written correctly. \| \| /n \| Uses short file name, if available, when copying a file with a non-8dot3 name. \| \| /y \| Suppresses confirmation prompts to overwrite the destination file if it's the same name as the source file. \| \| /-y \| Shows confirmation prompts to overwrite a file if the source file name is identical to the destination file name. \| \| /z \| Copies [networked](https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-computer-networking-816249) files in restartable mode. \| \| /l \| Copies the link to the source instead of the actual file that the source points to. This is only relevant if the source is a symbolic link. \| \| /a \| Indicates an ASCII text file. \| \| /b \| Indicates a binary file. \| \| source \| This is the location and name of the file you want to copy. The source may not be a folder, and you may not use wildcard characters (the asterisk). \| \| destination \| This is the location and/or file name to which the file specified in the source should be copied \| \| /? \| Use the [help switch](https://www.lifewire.com/help-switch-2625896) with the copy command to show detailed help about the command's several options. \| You can append files by selecting several source files but specifying only one destination file. ## Copy Command Examples Here are several examples of how to use the copy command: ### Copy to a Different Folder ``` copy Z:\Software\program.iso C:\Users\Jon\Downloads\Programs\ ``` This example copies program.iso from the Z: drive to the user's Programs folder. Take note of the space between these commands. It's not immediately obvious, but the only spaces in this copy command example are after copy and between the source and destination files. ### Copy and Rename ``` copy Y:\install\j93n.exe Y:\more\m1284.msi ``` You can use the copy command to rename a file and change its file extension. In this example, the j93n.exe file is copied to a new folder on the Y: drive as m1284.msi. This isn't a [file conversion](https://www.lifewire.com/free-file-converter-software-and-online-services-2626121) technique (i.e., the [EXE](https://www.lifewire.com/exe-file-2622732) file isn't actually being converted to [MSI](https://www.lifewire.com/msi-file-4142884)). Instead, it's a way to make an identical copy but with the destination file saved under a different name and in a different folder. ``` copy D:\i386\atapi.sy_ C:\Windows\atapi.sys ``` In the example above, the atapi.sy file, located in the i386 folder on the Windows XP installation CD, is copied to the C:\\Windows directory as atapi.sys. Unlike the Y: drive example, this one is more realistic since copying files from a disc is a common practice when fixing specific Windows problems. ### Copy to Current Path ``` copy D:\readme.htm ``` In this example, the copy command has no specified destination, so the readme.htm file is copied to the directory from which you typed the copy command. For instance, if you type copy d:\\readme.htm from the C:\\Windows\> prompt, the HTM file will be copied to C:\\Windows. ### Copy Only Certain File Types ``` copy /y /v C:\Users\Jon\Downloads\.mp3 C:\Users\Jon\Music\DownloadedMusic\ ``` This command copies all MP3 files (\.mp3) from the Downloads folder to the Music\\DownloadedMusic\\folder. Ensure that every file is copied, even if one with the same name already exists in DownloadedMusic, by using the /y switch. Verify the copy with the /v switch to see if the files were successfully copied or if an error occurred during the process. A folder must already exist in the destination location before the copy command can transfer files to it. Create new folders in Command Prompt with the mkdir command. ### Merge Files Into One ``` copy Z:\file1.txt+Z:\file2.txt+Z:\file3.txt Z:\combined.txt ``` This command will merge three [TXT](https://www.lifewire.com/txt-text-file-4150707) files into a new file called combined.txt. Each file to be merged should be separated by a plus sign (+) without spaces. You can also use the asterisk to append multiple files. For example, replace individual .txt entries with Z:\\\*.txt to merge every TXT file from the Z: drive into one. ## Copy Related Commands This command is similar to the [xcopy command](https://www.lifewire.com/xcopy-command-2618103), but unlike the copy command, xcopy also works on folders. It's not necessary to use a command if you'd rather [copy a file in Windows using File Explorer](https://www.lifewire.com/how-do-i-copy-a-file-in-windows-2619210). Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know\! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day [Subscribe](https://www.lifewire.com/copy-command-2625842) Tell us why\! 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Readable Markdown	### The Download - The copy command helps you duplicate a file and place it somewhere else on your computer. - You can copy multiple files at once and even rename them using the copy command. The [copyCommand Prompt command](https://www.lifewire.com/list-of-command-prompt-commands-4092302) duplicates a file, allowing you to store the copy in a location of your choice. This command lets you copy a file using its specific name and [file extension](https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-a-file-extension-2625879) or employ a wildcard to copy multiple files simultaneously, regardless of file names or extensions. It offers options for verifying successful file copies and suppressing overwrite prompts for files with the same name. ## Copy Command Availability Copy Command Options (Windows 11 Command Prompt). The copy command is accessible from the [Command Prompt](https://www.lifewire.com/command-prompt-2625840) in [Windows 11](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-11-5188930), [Windows 10](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-10-2626217), [Windows 8](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-8-2626235), [Windows 7](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-7-2626265), [Windows Vista](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-vista-2626311), and [Windows XP](https://www.lifewire.com/windows-xp-2626354). It's also available in the [Advanced Startup Options](https://www.lifewire.com/advanced-startup-options-2625805) and [System Recovery Options](https://www.lifewire.com/system-recovery-options-2626021) repair/recovery menus. Certain copy command options and [syntax](https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-syntax-2626014) may vary based on the operating system. ## Copy Command Syntax The command follows this general format: copy \[/d\] \[/v\] \[/n\] \[/y \\| /-y\] \[/z\] \[/l\] \[/a \\| /b\] source \[/a \\| /b\] \[\+ source \[/a \\| /b\] \[\+ ...\]\] \[destination \[/a \\| /b\]\] \[/?\] \| Copy Command Options \| \| \|---\|---\| \| Item \| Explanation \| \| /d \| Allows the destination file to be created decrypted. \| \| /v \| Verifies that new files are written correctly. \| \| /n \| Uses short file name, if available, when copying a file with a non-8dot3 name. \| \| /y \| Suppresses confirmation prompts to overwrite the destination file if it's the same name as the source file. \| \| /-y \| Shows confirmation prompts to overwrite a file if the source file name is identical to the destination file name. \| \| /z \| Copies [networked](https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-computer-networking-816249) files in restartable mode. \| \| /l \| Copies the link to the source instead of the actual file that the source points to. This is only relevant if the source is a symbolic link. \| \| /a \| Indicates an ASCII text file. \| \| /b \| Indicates a binary file. \| \| source \| This is the location and name of the file you want to copy. The source may not be a folder, and you may not use wildcard characters (the asterisk). \| \| destination \| This is the location and/or file name to which the file specified in the source should be copied \| \| /? \| Use the [help switch](https://www.lifewire.com/help-switch-2625896) with the copy command to show detailed help about the command's several options. \| You can append files by selecting several source files but specifying only one destination file. ## Copy Command Examples Here are several examples of how to use the copy command: ### Copy to a Different Folder ``` copy Z:\Software\program.iso C:\Users\Jon\Downloads\Programs\ ``` This example copies program.iso from the Z: drive to the user's Programs folder. Take note of the space between these commands. It's not immediately obvious, but the only spaces in this copy command example are after copy and between the source and destination files. ### Copy and Rename ``` copy Y:\install\j93n.exe Y:\more\m1284.msi ``` You can use the copy command to rename a file and change its file extension. In this example, the j93n.exe file is copied to a new folder on the Y: drive as m1284.msi. This isn't a [file conversion](https://www.lifewire.com/free-file-converter-software-and-online-services-2626121) technique (i.e., the [EXE](https://www.lifewire.com/exe-file-2622732) file isn't actually being converted to [MSI](https://www.lifewire.com/msi-file-4142884)). Instead, it's a way to make an identical copy but with the destination file saved under a different name and in a different folder. ``` copy D:\i386\atapi.sy_ C:\Windows\atapi.sys ``` In the example above, the atapi.sy file, located in the i386 folder on the Windows XP installation CD, is copied to the C:\\Windows directory as atapi.sys. Unlike the Y: drive example, this one is more realistic since copying files from a disc is a common practice when fixing specific Windows problems. ### Copy to Current Path ``` copy D:\readme.htm ``` In this example, the copy command has no specified destination, so the readme.htm file is copied to the directory from which you typed the copy command. For instance, if you type copy d:\\readme.htm from the C:\\Windows\> prompt, the HTM file will be copied to C:\\Windows. ### Copy Only Certain File Types ``` copy /y /v C:\Users\Jon\Downloads\.mp3 C:\Users\Jon\Music\DownloadedMusic\ ``` This command copies all MP3 files (\.mp3) from the Downloads folder to the Music\\DownloadedMusic\\folder. Ensure that every file is copied, even if one with the same name already exists in DownloadedMusic, by using the /y switch. Verify the copy with the /v switch to see if the files were successfully copied or if an error occurred during the process. A folder must already exist in the destination location before the copy command can transfer files to it. Create new folders in Command Prompt with the mkdir command. ### Merge Files Into One ``` copy Z:\file1.txt+Z:\file2.txt+Z:\file3.txt Z:\combined.txt ``` This command will merge three [TXT](https://www.lifewire.com/txt-text-file-4150707) files into a new file called combined.txt. Each file to be merged should be separated by a plus sign (+) without spaces. You can also use the asterisk to append multiple files. For example, replace individual .txt entries with Z:\\\*.txt to merge every TXT file from the Z: drive into one. ## Copy Related Commands This command is similar to the [xcopy command](https://www.lifewire.com/xcopy-command-2618103), but unlike the copy command, xcopy also works on folders. It's not necessary to use a command if you'd rather [copy a file in Windows using File Explorer](https://www.lifewire.com/how-do-i-copy-a-file-in-windows-2619210). Was this page helpful? 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