Create an empty file on the commandline in windows (like the linux touch command)

How to Create an Empty File on Command Line in Windows

So you're on a Windows machine, trying to create an empty file using the command line, and you encountered the frustrating error message: "'touch' is not recognized as an internal or external command, operable program or batch file." Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this guide, we'll explore common issues, provide easy solutions, and help you find a Windows equivalent to the 'touch' command.

The Problem: 'touch' Command is Not Recognized in Windows

The 'touch' command is commonly used in Linux, macOS, and Unix systems to create or modify a file's timestamp. Unfortunately, Windows does not have a built-in 'touch' command, which is why you encountered the error message.

Solution 1: Using the echo Command

One simple way to create an empty file on the Windows command line is by using the echo command. Here's how it works:

1. Open the Command Prompt by pressing Win + R, typing cmd, and hitting Enter.

2. Navigate to the directory where you want to create the empty file. You can use the cd command to navigate through directories. For example, cd Documents to enter the "Documents" directory.

3. Type the following command to create an empty file:

   echo. > filename.ext

   Replace filename with the desired name of your file and ext with the appropriate file extension (e.g., txt, html, css).

4. Hit Enter, and voila! You've just created an empty file.

Solution 2: Using the fsutil Command

If you prefer a more direct alternative, you can also use the fsutil command, which is available in Windows. Here's how:

1. Open the Command Prompt as mentioned in Solution 1.

2. Navigate to the directory where you want to create the empty file.

3. Type the following command:

   fsutil file createnew filename.ext 0

   Replace filename with the desired name of your file and ext with the appropriate file extension.

4. Press Enter, and there you have it – an empty file created using the fsutil command.

Solution 3: Using Third-Party Software

If you frequently work with the command line and need more advanced file creation options, you may consider using third-party software like Git Bash or Cygwin. These programs provide a more Unix-like environment on Windows, including the 'touch' command.

You can download Git Bash from here and Cygwin from here.

Alternatively, you can also explore Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), which allows running a Linux distribution directly on your Windows machine. With WSL, the 'touch' command and other Linux utilities are readily available.

Conclusion

Creating an empty file on the Windows command line doesn't have to be a struggle. By using the echo command, fsutil command, or third-party software like Git Bash or Cygwin, you can easily replicate the functionality of the 'touch' command in Linux.

So go ahead, try out these solutions, and save time by automating file creation on your Windows machine. If you found this guide helpful, don't forget to share it with your fellow techies! 💻📂

Got any other Windows command line questions or suggestions? Drop us a comment below, and let's keep the conversation going! 👇🤝