Renamer

A renamer is a software utility designed to rename files and folders in batch. It applies user-defined rules to modify names according to patterns, metadata, or numeric sequences, enabling consistent naming across large collections.

Common features include pattern-based renaming with placeholders or tokens, sequential numbering with leading zeros, date and time tokens, case conversion, extension handling, and the option to search and replace within names. Many tools support regular expressions, metadata-based renaming (for example, using EXIF data from photos or ID3 tags from audio files), and preview modes to show the projected results before applying changes. Undo or restore functionality is desirable.

Use cases include organizing media libraries, preparing downloaded assets for publication, migrating archives with a uniform naming scheme, or renaming files to comply with workflow or software requirements. Renamers reduce manual effort and the potential for inconsistent naming that complicates search and scripting.

Renamers are available as graphical applications and command-line utilities across major platforms. Windows tools include Bulk Rename Utility and Advanced Renamer; macOS has NameChanger; Linux users may employ tools such as pyRenamer or KDE’s KDename tools; many file managers offer built-in bulk rename features. Some renamers emphasize cross-platform scripting via batch files or shell scripts.

While powerful, renaming can break references to files in documents or code. It is advisable to preview results, test on copies, and ensure that downstream references are updated or that a reversible rename is possible.