How to export folder content info to CSV file using PowerShell on Windows 10

Do you have a folder with a lot of files that you want to inventory in an Excel csv file? Here's a simple way to complete the task using PowerShell.

Dir Export-CSV PowerShell command
Dir Export-CSV PowerShell command

On Windows 10, sometimes, you may need to generate a csv file containing the information about a particular folder location for inventory purposes, to determine a specific information, or compare the data against another version of the folder to ensure its integrity.

You could perform this task manually, but it could take a long time. However, you can also use a PowerShell command to speed the process to a few seconds.

In this guide, you’ll learn the steps to use a PowerShell command to create an inventory of the content of a folder on Windows 10.

How to export list of files to csv on Windows 10

To create an Excel file containing files information from a folder with PowerShell, use these steps:

  1. Open File Explorer.

  2. Navigate to the folder or network location containing the files.

  3. Type the following command in the address bar and press Enter:

    PowerShell

    Open PowerShell folder location
    Open PowerShell folder location
  4. Type the following command to create an Excel supported csv list with a list of all the file names of the current location and press Enter:

    Dir | Export-CSV PATH\TO\EXPORTED\FILE.CSV

    In the command, make sure to update the path and name of the output file.

    For example, this command saves the output to the Desktop folder:

    Dir | Export-CSV C:\Users\username\Desktop\FileList.csv

    Export folder info to CSV file
    Export folder info to CSV file

Once you complete the steps, the command will create a csv file containing a lot of information about the contents inside the folder, including name of files, path, dates, and more, which you can then view and edit using Excel.

The command only creates a list of the files and folders within the current location, not subfolders.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of (est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.

Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.

Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.

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