How to Check If a Path is File or Directory using Batch

In this tutorial, we will learn how to check whether a given path in Windows is a file or a directory using a batch file. Batch files contain DOS (Disk Operating System) commands and automate execution of multiple instructions.

This is useful when your script needs to handle files and folders differently based on the type of path.
 

🔍 How to Check If a Path Is a File or Directory Using Batch

The following example checks if the path C:\Users\StackHowTo\myFolders exists, and then determines if it is a directory or a file:

@echo off
set "path=C:\Users\StackHowTo\myFolders"

if exist "%path%\" (
    echo Is a folder
) else if exist "%path%" (
    echo Is a file
) else (
    echo Does not exist
)

📤 Output:

Is a folder

📝 Explanation:

• if exist "%path%\" checks if the path with a trailing backslash exists — this only works for directories.
• else if exist "%path%" checks if the path without trailing backslash exists — this indicates it’s a file.
• If neither condition is true, it means the path does not exist.

⚠️ Important Notes:

• The trailing backslash after the path is essential when checking for folders.
• Use quotes around paths especially if they contain spaces.
• This method works reliably for local paths on Windows.

✅ Summary Table: