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cp Command in Linux

cp Command in Linux

By Team Scaler
2 mins read
Last updated: 1 Jan 2024
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Topics Covered

Overview

The cp command is used to copy files and directories in Linux. It is a commonly used command that can be used for a variety of purposes such as backup, migration, and replication. In this article, we will discuss the syntax, options, and various usages of the cp command in Linux.

Linux cp Command Syntax

The syntax for the cp command is as follows:

Where:

  • options: The various options that can be used with the cp command.
  • source and destination: The source and destination parameters can be in one of the following formats:
    • Copy a file to a new location: cp /path/to/source/file /path/to/destination
    • Copy a directory to a new location: cp -r /path/to/source/directory /path/to/destination
    • Copy a file to an existing directory: cp /path/to/source/file /path/to/existing/directory/

cp Command Options:

  • -r: Recursively copy the source directory and its contents.
  • -p: Preserve the ownership, permissions, and timestamps of the original file or directory.
  • -f: Force the copy operation, even if the destination file or directory already exists.

Example Usages

  • Copy a file to a new location::

    Explanation: This command will create a new copy of the file located at /path/to/source/file and place it in the location specified by /path/to/destination.

  • Copy a directory to a new location::

    Explanation: This command will recursively copy the entire directory located at /path/to/source/directory to the new location specified by /path/to/destination.

  • Copy a file to an existing directory::

    Explanation: This command will create a new copy of the file located at /path/to/source/file and place it in the existing directory specified by /path/to/existing/directory.

Tips

  • To see the progress of the copy operation, use the 'pv' command in combination with the cp command. For example, pv /path/to/source/file | cp /path/to/destination.

  • To copy files and directories across servers, use the 'scp' command instead of cp.

Conclusion

  • The cp command is a simple and powerful tool for copying files and directories in Linux.

  • It can be used for a variety of purposes such as backup, migration, and replication.

  • By using the various options and formats, you can customize the behavior of the command to suit your needs.

  • Always be careful when using the cp command, as it can overwrite files and directories if used incorrectly.