How to use C++ to Copy A Directory

Question

I have made a backup program using c++, but it uses the System() command to batch copy files.

I am looking for a way to copy an entire directory (this does not need to create any directories, just copy them). Or alternatively, copy everything within a directory.

For example, I want to copy C:\Users\ to E:\Backup\ Or C:\Users\* to E:\Backup\.

If possible could you include an example in your answer.

Thanks a lot!

Solution 1

As of today, C++17's <filesystem> is the proper solution.

#include <filesystem>

int main()
{
    std::filesystem::copy("C:/Users/", "E:/Backup/");
}

The slashes (/) are interpreted as directory separators, this is easier to read than a double back-slash (\\).

Solution 2

1) include .h files:

#include <csystem>

2) write cmd:

system("copy c:\users\ e:\Backup\");

Tips: You can write everything in " " , just like you copy directorys in cmd.

Solution 3

The approach using System will not be platform independent. I strongly recommend using boost::filesystem for such tasks.

Comments

[KingsOfTechENG]

first step is : # include <csystem>

[harper]

When you read the question you find that the OP has solved the task to call system().