del command (Windows / CMD)

What it does

Permanently delete one or more files. Searches for the del command cmd safely 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.

Permanently delete one or more files.

Syntax

del [/P] [/F] [/S] [/Q] [/A[[:]attributes]] names

Common options

Practical examples

del obsolete.txt

del /P *.tmp

del /S /Q C:\Temp\*.log

Linux ↔ Windows equivalent

Closest match: rm (Linux / bash / sh / zsh). Remove files and directory trees permanently.

Common mistakes

• Danger: `/S /Q` with a broad wildcard can permanently delete many files without prompts; run dir with the same pattern first.
• Expecting deleted files to go to the Recycle Bin.
• Using del for directories; use rmdir instead.

Related commands

• rmdirRemove an empty directory or an entire directory tree.
• Remove-ItemDelete provider items such as files, directories, registry keys, and variables.
• rmRemove files and directory trees permanently.
• 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