How to Generate a List of Filenames in a Directory on Windows

Occasionally, you might want to print or save a list of the files in a folder.

While Windows 11 doesn’t offer a built-in feature for this through its graphical interface, there are several easy ways to accomplish it—whether you want a quick inventory, a printable list, or a saved record for work or backup purposes.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through three methods:

• Using PowerShell or Command Prompt
• Adding a right-click context menu option via the Registry
• Using downloadable registry hacks for one-click setup

 

Method 1: Use PowerShell or Command Prompt

This is the simplest and most flexible way to generate a file list.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Open PowerShell or Command Prompt:
  • Navigate to the folder you want to list.
  • Right-click inside the folder and select “Open in Terminal” or “Open PowerShell window here.”
• Run the following command:

dir > filename.txt

• This creates a file named filename.txt in the same folder, containing a full directory listing.
• Prefer a cleaner list with just filenames? Use this instead:

cmd /r dir /b > filename.txt

• or in Command Prompt:

dir /b > filename.txt

• The /b switch outputs only the filenames, one per line.

 

Method 2: Add a Right-Click Option to Copy File List

If you frequently need file lists, you can add a custom command to your right-click context menu.

Warning: Editing the Windows Registry can be risky. Always back up your registry and system before making changes.

Add the Context Menu Option

• Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter then navigate to:

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\shell

• Right-click the shell key → New > Key → name it copylist.
• Select the new copylist key and double-click the (Default) value.
  • Set it to: Copy File List to Clipboard
• Right-click copylist → New > Key → name it command.
• Select the command key and double-click the (Default) value.
  • For a simple list of filenames:

cmd /c dir “%1” /b /a:-d /o:n | clip

• For a detailed list (name, size, date):

cmd /c dir “%1” /a:-d /o:n | clip

• Close Registry Editor.

Now, right-click any folder and select “Copy File List to Clipboard.” Paste it into Notepad, Excel, or anywhere else.

 

Method 3: Use One-Click Registry Hacks

If you’d rather not edit the Registry manually, you can use pre-made .reg files:

• Copy Simple File Names to Clipboard
• Copy File Names and Details to Clipboard
• Remove Copy File Commands from Context Menu

These files automate the registry changes described above. Just double-click the one you want and follow the prompts.

Tip: You can create your own .reg files by exporting the modified keys from Registry Editor.

 

Conclusion

Whether you’re organizing files, documenting software, or just curious about what’s in a folder, generating a list of filenames in Windows 11 is easier than it seems.

This article provided you with quick PowerShell commands to a custom right-click options, giving you multiple tools at your disposal.

I welcome your thoughts, questions or suggestions on my article on how to generate a list of directory filenames on Windows.

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