How to Rename Multiple Files at Once in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 14, 2025

Ever find yourself staring at a folder full of files with names like IMG_001, IMG_002, and so on — wishing there was a faster way to rename them? If you’re on Windows 11, you’re in luck. The operating system gives you multiple ways to rename multiple files at once, from quick right-click tricks to powerful command-line tools.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through every method step-by-step so you can choose the one that fits your needs — whether you just want a quick rename or need full-blown automation.

Why Rename Multiple Files at Once?

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s look at the why. Renaming files isn’t just about being neat — it’s about saving time and avoiding headaches.

  • Better Organization – Turn IMG_001 into Vacation_2025_001 so you can find it later.

  • Professional Look – Clean, consistent naming makes work projects look polished.

  • Easy Sorting – Files with logical names are easier to sort and share.

Think of it like cleaning up your digital closet — everything’s easier to find once it’s labeled properly.

Method 1: Rename Multiple Files Using File Explorer

This is the simplest and most user-friendly way to rename many files in one go.

Step 1: Select All the Files You Want to Rename

  1. Open the folder in File Explorer

  2. Use Ctrl + Click to select specific files

  3. Or press Ctrl + A to select everything

Step 2: Rename the First File

  • Right-click the first file → choose Rename

  • Or press F2 on your keyboard

Step 3: Enter the New Name

Type your desired name, e.g., Vacation_Photo, and press Enter.

Step 4: Watch Windows Rename Them Automatically

Windows will rename all selected files in this pattern:

Vacation_Photo (1)
Vacation_Photo (2)
Vacation_Photo (3)

Super quick, super easy.

Method 2: Rename Files Using Right-Click Context Menu

Windows 11’s context menu also gives you a built-in rename option:

  • Select multiple files

  • Right-click → choose Rename

  • Type your new name and press Enter

This does the same thing as Method 1, just a slightly different way.

Method 3: Rename Files with PowerToys (Bulk Renamer)

If you want more control over renaming — like replacing specific words, adding prefixes, or changing extensions — Microsoft’s PowerToys is a lifesaver.

Step 1: Install Microsoft PowerToys

Step 2: Open PowerRename

  1. Select the files you want to rename

  2. Right-click → choose PowerRename

Step 3: Customize the Rename Pattern

  • Use search and replace fields

  • Add numbering, date, or custom text

  • Preview the result before applying

Step 4: Apply Changes

Click Rename and watch all files update instantly.

Method 4: Rename Multiple Files with Command Prompt

For command-line fans, Command Prompt gives precise control.

Example Command

Open Command Prompt in the folder and type:

ren *.txt Report_*.txt

This renames every .txt file to start with Report_.

Method 5: Rename Files with Windows PowerShell

PowerShell is even more powerful — perfect for complex tasks.

Example PowerShell Script

Get-ChildItem *.jpg | ForEach-Object -Begin {$i=1} -Process {
Rename-Item $_ -NewName ("Vacation_{0:D3}.jpg" -f $i)
$i++
}

This renames every .jpg file to:

Vacation_001.jpg
Vacation_002.jpg
Vacation_003.jpg

Method 6: Third-Party Bulk Renaming Tools

If you frequently rename hundreds of files, dedicated apps can save time.

  • Bulk Rename Utility – Extremely powerful (but a bit complex)

  • Advanced Renamer – Friendly interface and batch processing

  • ReNamer – Lightweight, simple, and effective

Tips for Smarter File Renaming

  • Use Leading Zeros – e.g., 001, 002, 003 for better sorting

  • Avoid Special Characters – Stick to letters, numbers, dashes, and underscores

  • Include Dates – Great for version control (Report_2025_08)

  • Stay Consistent – Pick a format and use it everywhere

How to Undo a Batch Rename

Oops, renamed something wrong? Here’s what you can do:

  • Press Ctrl + Z immediately after renaming — Windows will undo the change

  • Restore from File History or OneDrive if synced

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: Some Files Didn’t Rename

Solution: Make sure none of the files are open in another program.

Problem: You Get an Access Denied Error

Solution: Run PowerShell or Command Prompt as Administrator.

Problem: Files Are Out of Order

Solution: Sort the folder first by Name or Date Modified before renaming.

When to Use Which Method

  • Quick Renames → File Explorer right-click method

  • Complex Patterns → PowerToys or PowerShell

  • Heavy Automation → PowerShell scripts or third-party software

Final Thoughts

Renaming multiple files at once in Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a chore. Whether you’re organizing photos, managing work documents, or cleaning up downloads, these methods make it quick and painless.

Start with the basic File Explorer trick for everyday use, and graduate to PowerToys or PowerShell when you need more control. Your future self will thank you when everything is organized and easy to find.

FAQs

1. Can I rename files in different folders at once?
Yes, but you’ll need PowerToys or PowerShell for that — File Explorer only works within one folder at a time.

2. Can I keep the original file names but add numbers?
Absolutely. PowerToys and Advanced Renamer let you append numbers without replacing names.

3. What’s the fastest way to rename 100+ files?
PowerToys PowerRename is the quickest for large batches.

4. Will renaming files break any apps or shortcuts?
It can, if those apps rely on the original file path. Double-check before renaming important files.

5. Can I remove part of a filename from all files at once?
Yes — use PowerToys search-and-replace or a PowerShell script to strip unwanted text.

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