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DOS and Batch Files

Extended Pattern Matching

SUMMARY: Multiple asterisks can be used in patterns when matching files.

You may know that with just about every version of DOS, using the '*" in a command matches all files which match the characters before the asterisk. In later versions of DOS, however, you can use the asterisk to select every file which matches the character after the asterisk.

For example, a DIR *EC.* in the root directory could match files AUTOEXEC.BAT, AUTOEXEC.DOS, DUALEXEC.INF, and LEC.TXT. And yes, you can do a pattern-match with characters before and after the asterisk.

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The MalekTips website was created in 1998 by Andrew Malek of Envision Programming. The page's goal is to freely disperse computer-related tips, hints, and informative articles. Tips are organized to be easy to find, and are presented clearly, in easy-to-understand language. MalekTips also provides information and links to public-domain, open source, freeware, shareware, and commercial software available for download. < more >