copy command (Windows / CMD)

What it does

Copy one or more files and optionally combine text or binary files. Searches for the copy command cmd usually need CMD syntax, practical switches, and notes on how it compares with PowerShell or Linux alternatives. This page covers syntax, common options, and copyable examples for Command Prompt.

Copy one or more files and optionally combine text or binary files.

Syntax

copy [/D] [/V] [/N] [/Y | /-Y] source [destination]

Common options

Practical examples

copy report.txt D:\Archive\

copy /-Y config.ini config.bak

copy /A part1.txt+part2.txt complete.txt

Linux ↔ Windows equivalent

Closest match: cp (Linux / bash / sh / zsh). Copy files or directory trees to another location.

Common mistakes

• Using copy for directory trees; use xcopy or robocopy.
• Reversing source and destination and replacing the wrong file.

Related commands

• xcopyCopy files and directory trees with filtering and overwrite controls.
• robocopyReliably copy and synchronize large directory trees.
• Copy-ItemCopy items between locations supported by PowerShell providers.
• lsList directory entries and inspect file metadata.
• cdChange the shell's current working directory.
• dirList files and subdirectories with names, dates, sizes, and attributes.
• findWalk directory trees and select entries using tests and actions.
• Get-ChildItemEnumerate items and child items in filesystem, registry, and other providers.

FAQ