Windows paste files equivalent in Linux
Combines corresponding lines from multiple files.
paste files
paste file1 file2
paste file1 file2
paste file1 file2
Overview
What this command does
On Windows, "paste files" is used to merge lines side by side. On Linux, the closest practical mapping shown here is "paste file1 file2". Combines corresponding lines from multiple files. This reference is grouped under Text Processing → Fields.
Windows → Linux context
What changes when you use this on Linux?
Same name, different environment
The basic command name paste is familiar on both platforms, but Linux path rules, quoting, permissions and available options can still change the result.
Portable across the compared distros
The Debian/Ubuntu, Fedora and Arch rows use the same command in this mapping. Package availability or defaults can still vary, so check the installed tool version when an option behaves differently.
For the broader concept behind this mapping, read Linux command-line basics.
Practical tasks
Common use cases
Merge lines side by side
Combines corresponding lines from multiple files.
paste file1 file2
Merge lines side by side
paste --help
Show command help when supported
man paste
Open the manual page when installed
Ready to run
Copyable Linux commands
Review paths, device names, package names and permissions before running any command.
paste file1 file2
Walkthrough
Examples with explanations
# Windows equivalent: paste files
paste file1 file2Reference
Common options and variations
| Command or option | Use |
|---|---|
paste file1 file2 | Merge lines side by side |
paste --help | Show command help when supported |
man paste | Open the manual page when installed |
Distro differences
Debian/Ubuntu vs Fedora vs Arch
Debian/Ubuntu, Fedora and Arch all use "paste file1 file2" for this mapping. The command syntax shown here is portable across the three rows, although installed versions and system defaults can still vary.
| Distribution | Package manager / base | Equivalent command | Difference to notice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Debian/Ubuntu | same command | paste file1 file2 |
Same command on this distribution. |
| Fedora | same command | paste file1 file2 |
Same command on this distribution. |
| Arch | same command | paste file1 file2 |
Same command on this distribution. |
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