cp Command - Copy Files or Directories

The cp command is used to copy files or directories from one location to another.

Syntax

cp [options] source target

Common Options

• -i: Prompt before overwrite.
• -r: Copy directories recursively.
• -p: Preserve file attributes.
• -u: Copy only when the source is newer or the target does not exist.
• -v: Show files as they are copied.

Examples

cp file1.txt /home/user/docs/

cp -r dir1 /home/user/backup/

cp -i file1.txt file2.txt

Notes

• The cp command does not change the original file, it only creates a copy.
• Be careful when copying over existing files to avoid unintentional data loss.