SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/aplus-robocopy-mirror

Which robocopy switch mirrors a directory tree, copying files and purging extras at the destination?

/mir mirrors a directory tree, equal to /e plus /purge.

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  1. /mir ✔
  2. /lev:1
  3. /s

Why: A mirror makes the destination match the source. That includes deleting files at the destination that no longer exist at the source, so use it carefully.

Huh, didn't know that: robocopy /lev:n copies only the top n levels of the source directory tree.

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A programmer's wife says: go to the store and buy a gallon of milk, and if they have eggs, get a dozen. He comes back with 12 gallons of milk.
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References

Answer: /mir. A mirror makes the destination match the source. That includes deleting files at the destination that no longer exist at the source, so use it carefully.

  1. robocopy command reference, Microsoft Learn learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/administration/windows-commands/robocopy
    /mir Mirrors a directory tree (equivalent to /e plus /purge ).
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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