I'm trying to rename multiple files using the ren command prompt. But, the wildcards (* and ?) are not working as indicated in all the instructions I've found online. For example, when trying to rename 3 files: smitha.doc, smithb.doc, smithhc.doc to call them smythea.doc, smytheb.doc, smythec.doc I've tried two different commands: ren smith*.doc smythe*.doc ren smith?.doc smythe?.doc The end result is the same. The first doc, smitha.doc is renamed to smythe.doc (but the a at the end of the name is now missing). The remaining two files cannot be renamed because Windows is attempting to also call them smythe.doc (no "b" or "c" at the end), and duplicate file names are not allowed. How are the wildcards supposed to work? Am I doing it wrong? Is there another method for renaming multiple files such that a portion part of each file name is changed, while keeping the rest of the file name intact? Thanks! Jennifer

Wildcards only works for command input, that is why you cannot use it in "REN" command. Try a third party program like Total Commander (shareware) for renaming of multiple files. Nigel

try this for freeware, i used it rename 400 odd mp3's http://www.download.com/File-Renamer-Basic/3000-2248_4-10306539.html?tag=lst-0-1

In the past I've been able to use the ren command to mass-change file extensions, so I would think it would be able to change names themselves. Guess not :\

Erik Wildcards work with extensions. So, sure, the command ren *.bmp *.jpg will change all the bmp files in that folder to jpg. Working on the names is a different ball game. *. means "all the extensions of the particular type that follow it". *.* means "all the extensions that follow it" (whatever they are). Derek.W