The Windows Command Prompt is a powerful tool that can be used for various tasks, from basic file and directory management to more advanced scripting and automation tasks. It can help you accomplish almost anything. This article will guide you on how to open the Command Prompt in Windows and provide a quick reference for Windows Command Line commands.
The Windows Command Prompt is a text-based interface that allows you to execute commands on your computer. Often referred to as "Command Prompt" or simply the "Prompt," it provides a text-based interface for issuing commands and controlling your computer. You can use the command line to perform a variety of tasks, from running programs to accessing system settings. Though it may seem daunting at first, the command line is actually quite easy to use. With a bit of practice, you can quickly learn how to use the Windows Command Prompt more efficiently to manage your computer.
Opening the command line in Windows is a straightforward process. First, access the Start menu by clicking the Start button or pressing the Windows key. Next, type "cmd" into the search box and hit Enter. This will open the Windows Command Prompt. From here, you can input any command you wish to execute.
Alternatively, you can press the "Windows key + R" on your keyboard. This will open the "Run" dialog box. Type "cmd" into the box and press Enter.
Press Windows key + R to run cmd
Now that you know how to open Command Prompt in Windows, you can use it to run various commands to perform tasks on your computer.
If you're new to the Windows Command Prompt, you might feel overwhelmed with all the different commands and options. But fear not – we've got you covered. Our handy Windows Command Prompt Cheat Sheet PDF serves as a convenient reference guide, listing the most commonly used commands. Print it out or keep it on your desktop for quick access to the information you need. Alternatively, you can explore the online table below to start making the most of the command line!
Command | What does it do? |
File and Folder Commands |
|
assoc | Repair file associations. |
attrib | Change file attributes. |
cd (or chdir) | Change the current directory. |
comp | Compare multiple files. |
compact | Compact files from one location to another. |
del (or erase) | Delete a file. |
dir | List files and subfolders. |
expand | Expand a compressed file. |
fc | File compare. |
find | Search for strings in a file. |
findstr | Search for text patterns in a file. |
md (or mkdir) | Create a directory or subdirectory. |
move | Move a file from one directory to another. |
openfiles | Display a list of open files or disconnect an open file/folder. |
Send a text file to a printer. | |
rd (or rmdir) | Remove a directory. |
ren (or rename) | Rename a file or directory. |
replace | Replace an existing file or add a new file to a directory. |
robocopy | Copy file data from one location to another. |
tree | Display a tree view of a directory. |
type | Display the contents of a text file. |
xcopy | Copy files and directories. |
Disk and Partition Commands |
|
active | Mark the selected partition as active. |
chkdsk | Check a disk. |
chkntfs | Display or modify disk checks that run at computer startup. |
clean | Delete all partitions or volumes on the selected disk. |
convert | Convert a disk from one disk type to another. |
create | Create a partition or volume. |
defrag | Locate and merge fragmented files on a local volume. |
delete | Delete a partition or volume. |
detail | Display information about the selected disk. |
diskcomp | Compare the contents of two floppy disks. |
diskcopy | Copy the contents of a disk. |
diskpart | Manage computer disks and drives. |
diskperf | Start or stop disk performance counters for Performance Monitor. |
extend | Extend a partition or volume. |
format | Format a disk to accept Windows files. |
freedisk | Check for the specified amount of disk space before continuing the installation process. |
fsutil | Perform tasks related to the FAT and NTFS file systems. |
gpt | Assign GPT attributes to a partition. |
label | Create, change, or delete a volume label. |
list | Display a list of disks. |
recover | Recover readable information from a damaged or defective disk. |
vol | Display a disk's volume label and serial number. |
Network Commands |
|
arp | Display and modify entries in the ARP cache. |
The Windows command line is a useful tool for any Windows user. If you want to learn more about using commands, the Windows Command Prompt Cheat Sheet is an excellent resource. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this cheat sheet will help you make the most of your Windows experience.