How to Rename Files in Linux

Renaming files in Linux is done using the mv (move) or rename command. The system treats renaming as moving a file to a new name in the same location.

Rename a Single File (mv)

Basic syntax:

mv old_filename new_filename

Example:

mv file1.txt file2.txt

This renames a file without changing its location.

Rename Using Absolute Path

mv /path/old.txt /path/new.txt

Used when working outside the current directory.

Rename Multiple Files (mv + loop)

for f in *.txt; do
  mv -- "$f" "${f%.txt}.pdf"
done

Changes .txt → .pdf for all files in a directory.

Rename Multiple Files (rename)

rename 's/old/new/' *.txt

Example:

• replace text in filenames
• change extensions
• bulk rename

The rename command uses regex and is more flexible for batch operations.

Key Notes

• mv → simple rename (single file)
• rename → bulk rename with patterns
• loops → needed for batch operations with mv
• supports full paths and automation

Summary

• rename file → mv old new
• batch rename → rename or loops
• use regex for advanced patterns

Full guide 👉https://vsys.host/how-to/how-to-rename-files-in-linux