Many programs have a search and replace function that allows you to
replace text in the file you are currently editing. However, search and
replace utilities allow you to replace text across multiple files or folders.
The most powerful free program in this class is BK ReplaceEm [1].
It will carry out replacements in individual files, in a group of
selected files, in a set of files determined by a file mask, or indeed
every file in a folder. Replacement can be by text string or by using
regular expressions. You can even replace text within a nominated range
such as html tags. The interface is both logical and powerful, but it does
take a little getting used to, so read the Help file before using.
Power users need look no further than this product.
A little less powerful, but a tad easier for normal users is A.F.9 from
Fauland [2]. It allows multiple search and replace operations in the
one pass, can save search and replace operations for later re-use, and
has full drag and drop support.
Note that these programs are designed for use on text based files such
as .txt and .html and must not be used on binary files or proprietary
formats such as Microsoft Word. If you want to search and replace these
kind of files then check out InfoRapid Search and Replace [3]. It's
not as powerful as the best binary editors, but with suitable add-ins it can handle certain Microsoft Office file types plus .rtf and .pdf
[1] BK Replacem
Website: http://www.orbit.org/replace/
License: Freeware
Download Filesize: 572 KB
Windows Operating Systems Supported: all Windows versions
Non-Windows Operating Systems Supported: None
64 Bit Capable: No
Portable Version Available: No
Additional Software Required: None
[2] A.F.9
Website: http://www.fauland.com/af9.htm
License: Freeware
Download Filesize: 992 KB
Windows Operating Systems Supported: Windows 9x/Me/NT4/XP
Non-Windows Operating Systems Supported: None
64 Bit Capable: No
Portable Version Available: No
Additional Software Required: None
[3] InfoRapid Search and Replace
Website: http://www.inforapid.de/html/searchreplace.htm
License: Free for private use
Download Filesize: 1.03 MB
Windows Operating Systems Supported:
Non-Windows Operating Systems Supported: None
64 Bit Capable: No
Portable Version Available: No
Additional Software Required: None