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Create a hard link with New-Item -ItemType HardLink

One file, two directory entries, zero extra disk space — hard links on NTFS without fsutil or mklink syntax.

WindowsFilesntfshardlinkLow risk
Run New-Item -ItemType HardLink -Path <new-link> -Target <existing-file> to create the link (same as mklink /H).

01Command

Command
$ New-Item -ItemType HardLink -Path 'D:\Links\data.nfo' -Target 'C:\Data\data.nfo'

02What it does

A hard link is a second directory entry pointing at the same file data, so edits through either path are visible through both, and the space is charged only once. Unlike symbolic links, hard links require no administrator rights and never break if the 'original' is moved. They only work between files on the same NTFS volume, and hard links to directories are not supported.

03Risk

RiskLow risk
RequirementsNTFS filesystem; same volume
!Warning: Deleting one link does not delete the data — only when the last link goes — but editing the file 'in one folder' changes it everywhere, which surprises people expecting independent copies.

04Undo

Undo
$ Remove-Item 'D:\Links\data.nfo'

05Sources

  • MKLINK - Windows CMD
    SS64 · technical · 2026-09-17
    Evidence: SS64 explains mklink /H hard links: directory entries pointing at the same data stream, same volume only, deletion of one link leaves data intact.
  • New-Item | Microsoft Learn
    Microsoft · vendor-doc · 2026-09-17
    Evidence: Microsoft documents New-Item -ItemType HardLink (and SymbolicLink/Junction) creating a hard link with -Target to an existing file.

Last verified: 2026-09-17 · Category: Files & Folders

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