RMDIR Windows Command Guide
The Windows rmdir command is a powerful tool for deleting directories in the command line interface. By using this command, you can easily remove folders from your system without having to navigate through a graphical user interface. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to use the rmdir command effectively, along with tips and tricks for advanced users. Mastering the rmdir command can help you manage your files and directories more efficiently in a Windows environment.
RMDIR Syntax:
rmdir [option] [parameter]
Options:
Option | Description |
---|---|
/s | Removes all directories and files in the specified directory and then removes the directory itself. |
/q | Quiet mode, do not ask if you want to remove the directory. |
/a | Removes even the read-only directories. |
Parameters:
Parameter | Description |
---|---|
Directory | Specifies the directory to be removed. |
RMDIR Command Samples:
Remove a Directory
rmdir C:\example
Removes the directory named “example” located in the C drive.
Remove a Directory and its Contents
rmdir /s C:\example
Removes the directory named “example” along with all its contents in the C drive.
Forcefully Remove a Directory
rmdir /s /q C:\example
Forcefully removes the directory named “example” along with all its contents in the C drive without confirmation.
Remove Multiple Directories
rmdir /s C:\dir1 C:\dir2
Removes multiple directories named “dir1” and “dir2” along with their contents.
Remove Directory with a Path Longer Than 260 Characters
rmdir /s /q "\\?\C:\very\long\path"
Removes a directory with a path longer than 260 characters by using the extended UNC syntax.
Remove Hidden Directory
rmdir /s /ah C:\hidden
Removes a hidden directory named “hidden” along with all its contents in the C drive.
Remove Read-Only Directory
rmdir /s /ar C:\readonly
Removes a read-only directory named “readonly” along with all its contents in the C drive.
RMDIR FAQ:
How do I use rmdir in Windows?
To use the rmdir command in Windows, execute the following command:
rmdir /s /q C:\example_directory
What is the purpose of the rmdir command?
The rmdir command is used in Windows to remove (delete) directories from the file system.
How can I force delete a directory using rmdir?
To force delete a directory and all of its contents without confirmation in Windows, run the following command:
rmdir /s /q C:\example_directory
Can I use wildcards with rmdir in Windows?
Yes, you can use wildcards with the rmdir command in Windows to delete multiple directories that match a specified pattern. For example:
rmdir /s /q C:\example_directory\*
How can I delete a directory that is not empty with rmdir?
To delete a directory that is not empty in Windows using rmdir, you can use the /s
flag to remove all files and subdirectories. For example:
rmdir /s /q C:\example_directory
Is there a way to include hidden and system files when using rmdir in Windows?
Yes, to include hidden and system files when deleting a directory with rmdir, you can add the /a
flag. For example:
rmdir /s /q /a C:\example_directory
Applications of the RMDIR Command
- Remove a directory
- Remove multiple directories at once by specifying their names
- Delete directories even if they are non-empty, along with all their contents
- Can be used in batch scripts or command line to automate directory removal