Renaming files one by one is fine when you’ve only got a handful. But what if you’re staring at hundreds of photos, documents, or videos that need proper names? Doing it manually would be like painting a fence with a toothbrush—frustrating and slow. Thankfully, Windows 11 gives you multiple ways to rename files in bulk. In this guide, I’ll show you step by step how to rename multiple files at once using File Explorer, PowerShell, Command Prompt, and third-party tools.
Why Rename Multiple Files at Once?
You might be wondering: “Why should I bother renaming files in bulk?” Here are a few practical reasons:
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Organizing photos (e.g., Vacation1, Vacation2, Vacation3).
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Renaming project files for easy collaboration.
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Standardizing file names across folders.
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Adding dates or keywords for quick searching.
Think of it like labeling moving boxes—you’ll thank yourself later when you need to find something fast.
Method 1: Rename Multiple Files with File Explorer (Easiest Way)
Windows 11 has a built-in bulk rename feature right in File Explorer.
Steps to Rename Files Using File Explorer
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Open the folder containing your files.
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Select all the files you want to rename (use Ctrl + A or hold Ctrl and click individually).
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Right-click one of the selected files and choose Rename.
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Type your new name (e.g., “Project”).
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Press Enter.
Windows will rename all selected files in sequence:
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Project (1).jpg
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Project (2).jpg
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Project (3).jpg
Pros and Cons
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✅ Easy and built-in—no commands needed.
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✅ Perfect for quick renames.
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❌ Limited customization (only adds numbers).
Method 2: Rename Files with Context Menu (Right-Click Trick)
Another simple approach:
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Select multiple files.
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Right-click → Show more options (Shift + F10).
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Click Rename.
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Enter your desired name.
This works just like the standard File Explorer method but feels more direct.
Method 3: Rename Files Using PowerShell (Advanced Control)
If you want more customization—like adding prefixes, suffixes, or replacing text—PowerShell is your friend.
Steps with PowerShell
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Press Win + S, type PowerShell, and open it.
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Navigate to the folder with your files using:
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Use this command to rename all files with a prefix:
This adds Project_ before every file name.
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To replace part of a name:
Pros and Cons
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✅ Highly customizable.
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✅ Great for large-scale renames.
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❌ Requires basic command knowledge.
Method 4: Rename Files Using Command Prompt
Command Prompt is another powerful option.
Steps with Command Prompt
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Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
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Navigate to your folder:
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To rename all
.txtfiles sequentially:Example:
doc1.txt→file_doc1.txt. -
For more advanced patterns, use batch scripts.
Pros and Cons
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✅ Lightweight and fast.
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✅ Works without extra tools.
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❌ Less flexible than PowerShell.
Method 5: Rename Files with Third-Party Software
If you want the easiest way with tons of options, try third-party renaming tools.
Popular File Renaming Tools
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Bulk Rename Utility – Extremely powerful, though the interface looks old-school.
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Advanced Renamer – Modern UI, supports batch rules.
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File Renamer Basic – Beginner-friendly.
Features You Get
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Add timestamps, prefixes, or suffixes.
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Replace specific text.
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Change file extensions.
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Preview before renaming.
This is like having a Swiss Army knife for file renaming.
Method 6: Use Microsoft PowerToys (Modern Solution)
Microsoft’s free PowerToys app includes a feature called PowerRename.
Steps with PowerRename
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Download and install PowerToys from Microsoft’s site.
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Select your files → Right-click → PowerRename.
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Use the dialog box to apply rules:
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Replace text.
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Add numbering.
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Use regular expressions for advanced patterns.
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Preview and confirm.
PowerRename is like File Explorer’s rename tool, but on steroids.
Tips for Efficient File Renaming
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Plan your structure: Decide if you want prefixes, suffixes, or numbering before starting.
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Use descriptive names: Instead of “File1,” use “Invoice_January2025.”
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Keep it short: Long names can cause compatibility issues.
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Avoid special characters: Some apps don’t handle symbols like /, ?, or *.
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Test on a few files first: Especially with PowerShell or Command Prompt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Forgetting to back up files before bulk renaming.
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Using duplicate names (causes overwrite errors).
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Misusing PowerShell or CMD commands and renaming incorrectly.
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Adding special characters unsupported by Windows.
Which Method Should You Choose?
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Beginner → Use File Explorer.
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Intermediate → Try PowerToys PowerRename.
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Advanced user → Use PowerShell for full control.
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Heavy renaming tasks → Install Bulk Rename Utility.
Think of it like choosing between scissors, a utility knife, or a chainsaw—each tool fits different jobs.
Conclusion
Renaming multiple files at once in Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Whether you use the built-in File Explorer, the power of PowerShell, or handy tools like PowerToys, you’ll find a method that suits your needs. The key is to choose the right approach for your skill level and file volume. With the right method, you can rename hundreds of files in minutes instead of hours—making your workflow smoother and more organized.
FAQs
1. Can I rename multiple files with different names in one go?
Not directly with File Explorer—you’ll need PowerShell, Command Prompt, or third-party software.
2. Does renaming files affect the content inside?
No, renaming only changes the file’s name, not its contents.
3. Can I undo a bulk rename in Windows 11?
Yes, press Ctrl + Z right after renaming to undo changes.
4. Is PowerToys PowerRename safe to use?
Yes, it’s an official Microsoft utility and completely safe.
5. Can I rename file extensions too?
Yes, but be careful—changing extensions may make files unusable if you pick the wrong type.