How to Copy Files Without Changing Dates and Timestamps
Windows Explorer applies specific rules to timestamps when copying:
| Files | Folders | |
|---|---|---|
| Date Modified | Preserved - the contents haven't changed, just cloned | Reset to the time of the copy |
| Date Created | Reset to the time of the copy - a new file instance was created on the destination | Reset to the time of the copy |
This means even a simple file copy in Explorer will show a new "Date created" on every file, and both dates will be wrong on every folder. For most everyday tasks that doesn't matter, but it becomes a problem in situations where original dates are essential:
- Photography - shooting dates must be intact for media libraries to sort and group correctly.
- Archives and records - original document dates are needed for audit trails and compliance.
- Legal and forensic work - file metadata is part of the evidence chain and must not change.
- Project backups - modification dates must be consistent so incremental backup tools work correctly.
TeraCopy preserves timestamps automatically
TeraCopy keeps both Date Modified and Date Created intact by default - no extra settings required. After copying your files it also restores the original timestamps to all destination folders, so the entire directory structure matches the source exactly.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply timestamps without copying the file data?
Yes. In TeraCopy's transfer options, uncheck Data for files. TeraCopy will update timestamps on the destination files without re-copying the content - useful when files are already in place and you just need to sync their dates.
Does Windows Explorer preserve timestamps when copying?
Partially. Explorer preserves Date Modified for files, but always resets Date Created for files and resets both dates for folders. TeraCopy preserves all timestamps including Date Created and folder dates.
Are folder timestamps also preserved?
Yes. TeraCopy restores the source folder timestamps to all destination folders after the copy is complete, including nested subfolders.
Does this work for move operations too?
Yes. Timestamps are preserved for both copy and move operations.