Example usage for if.
if exist config.ini type config.iniif command
Run a command conditionally in a batch script.
Documented syntax
if [not] ERRORLEVEL <number> <command> [else <expression>]
if [not] <string1>==<string2> <command> [else <expression>]
if [not] exist <filename> <command> [else <expression>]
If command extensions are enabled, use the following syntax:
if [/i] <string1> <compareop> <string2> <command> [else <expression>]
if cmdextversion <number> <command> [else <expression>]
if defined <variable> <command> [else <expression>]The linked Microsoft Learn article is the upstream authority. Availability may depend on Windows release, role, optional feature or interactive tool context.
Examples
Parameters, options and clauses
| Option / clause | Description |
|---|---|
not | Invert the condition. |
ERRORLEVEL <number> | Test whether the last program exit code is at least the specified number. |
exist <filename> | Test whether a file exists. |
<string1>==<string2> | Compare two strings. |
/i | Use case-insensitive string comparison when command extensions are enabled. |
defined <variable> / cmdextversion <number> | Test a variable or the command-extensions version. |
<command> | Microsoft documents this argument or subcommand; check the linked reference for its required format and context. |
<expression> | Microsoft documents this argument or subcommand; check the linked reference for its required format and context. |
<compareop> | Microsoft documents this argument or subcommand; check the linked reference for its required format and context. |
Review a command and its target before running it. Commands that alter files, services, accounts, disks, permissions or databases may be difficult to reverse. Test in a safe environment and keep backups.