How to Search and Sort Files in Windows Using CMD and PowerShell Windows Tricks

Managing files efficiently is an essential skill in any operating system. In this guide, we’ll explore how to leverage Command Prompt (CMD) and PowerShell to search for and sort files in Windows. With detailed steps and clear examples, you’ll master file management like a pro.

Table of Contents

1. How to Search for Files Using Command Prompt.

1.1 Basic File Search.

To locate files in a specific directory, use the `dir` command. Here’s how:

Open Command Prompt by typing `CMD` in the taskbar search box.
Run the following command to search for all `.exe` files in the `test` directory on the C drive:
```
dir c:\test\*.exe
```

This command lists all `.exe` files in the `test` folder but excludes subdirectories.

1.2 Include Subdirectories in Search.

To include files in subdirectories, add the `/s` switch:
```
dir c:\test\*.exe /s
```

1.3 Sorting Search Results.

Sort files based on attributes like name or size using the `/o` option:

Sort by name in ascending order:
```
dir c:\test\*.exe /s /o:n
```
Sort by size:
```
dir c:\test\*.exe /s /o:s
```
Note: CMD can only sort files within the same directory, not across all directories.

2. How to Use PowerShell for Advanced Sorting.

PowerShell offers more robust sorting capabilities compared to CMD.

2.1 Launch PowerShell.

Type `PowerShell` in the taskbar search box and open `Windows PowerShell`.

2.2 Recursive File Search.

To find all `.exe` files in the `C:\test` directory and its subdirectories, use:
```
Get-ChildItem -Recurse C:\test\*.exe
```

2.3 Sort Files by Size.

To sort files by size in ascending order:

Get-ChildItem -Recurse C:\test\*.exe | Sort-Object Length

For descending order:

Get-ChildItem -Recurse C:\test\*.exe | Sort-Object Length -Descending

2.4 Sort Files by Name.

Sort by file name in ascending order:

Get-ChildItem -Recurse C:\test\*.exe | Sort-Object Name