Using Robocopy to copy directory structure and NTFS permissions (but not files)

How to Copy Directory Structure & Permissions (Without Files) Using Robocopy

Need to copy a folder structure and permissions—but not the files? Follow these simple steps:

1. Open Command Prompt – Run as Administrator.
2. Use Robocopy – A built-in Windows tool for advanced copying.
3. Enter This Command:textCopyDownloadrobocopy “source” “destination” /e /z /SEC /xf *
   • Replace "source" and "destination" with your folder paths.
   • /e – Copies all subdirectories (even empty ones).
   • /z – Allows resuming if interrupted.
   • /SEC – Copies permissions.
   • /xf * – Excludes all files (only copies folders).

Done! Your directory structure and permissions are now copied—without the files.

This method is fast, reliable, and keeps security settings intact.