Step-by-Step Tutorial on Renaming Linux Folders Using MV Command (Effortless Solutions Inside)

Master renaming Linux folders efficiently using the mv command with these straightforward solutions.

Basic Folder Renaming

Navigate to the directory containing the target folder and execute:

mv OldFolderName NewFolderName

Example: Rename "documents" to "archive":

mv documents archive

Requires write permissions in the current directory. Use sudo if necessary.

Renaming While Moving

Specify source path, destination path, and new name simultaneously:

mv /path/to/OldFolderName /different/path/NewFolderName

Example: Move "project_old" from ~/work to ~/backups and rename to "project_archive":

mv ~/work/project_old ~/backups/project_archive

Renaming Multiple Folders (Sequential)

Combine mv with a loop:

for oldname in folder1 folder2 folder3; do
mv "$oldname" "newprefix_$oldname"

done

This appends "newprefix_" to each listed folder. Modify the pattern within the loop as needed.

Using Wildcards for Batch Renaming (Caution)

Match patterns carefully:

mv 2023_data_ 2024_data_  # Incorrect & Dangerous
mv project_?? project_backup_??  # Incorrect

mv expects explicit destination names. Wildcards work reliably only when moving/renaming one item matching the pattern:

mv 2023_report archive/2024_report

For complex bulk renaming, consider dedicated tools like rename.

Critical Considerations

• Overwrite Protection: Add the -i (interactive) flag to confirm before overwriting existing folders: mv -i oldname newname.
• Trailing Slashes: Avoid trailing slashes on the source argument unless intentional: mv oldname/ newname renames "oldname" to "newname".
• Verbose Mode: Use -v to see actions performed: mv -v folder1 folder2.
• Syntax: Always specify source(s) first, then the destination (a single folder name or target directory).