Secrets of CMD: Unleash the Power of Over 280 Commands on Your Windows PC (original) (raw)
Command
Description
Append
The append command allows programs to open files in a different directory as if they're in the current one. It's available in MS-DOS and all 32-bit versions of Windows, but not in 64-bit versions.
Arp
Use the arp command to view or modify entries in the ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) cache. It's available in all Windows versions.
Assoc
This command displays or changes file type associations for specific file extensions. It's available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
At
The at command is used to schedule commands and other programs to run at a specific date and time. The at command is available in Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP. Beginning in Windows 8, command-line task scheduling should instead be completed with the schtasks command.
Atmadm
The atmadm command is used to display information related to asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) connections on the system. The atmadm command is available in Windows XP. Support for ATM was removed beginning in Windows Vista, making the atmadm command unnecessary.
Attrib
The attrib command is used to change the attributes of a single file or a directory. The attrib command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Auditpol
The auditpol command is used to display or change audit policies. The auditpol command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Bcdboot
The bcdboot command is used to copy boot files to the system partition and to create a new system BCD store. The bcdboot command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Bcdedit
The bcdedit command is used to view or make changes to Boot Configuration Data. The bcdedit command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista. The bcdedit command replaced the bootcfg command beginning in Windows Vista.
Bdehdcfg
The bdehdcfg command is used to prepare a hard drive for BitLocker Drive Encryption. The bdehdcfg command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Bitsadmin
Use bitsadmin to manage download and upload jobs. Available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and Vista, it's being phased out in favor of BITS PowerShell cmdlets.
Bootcfg
Bootcfg builds, modifies, or views the boot.ini file, which identifies Windows' location by folder, partition, and drive. Available in Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. Replaced by bcdedit starting with Vista, bootcfg isn't necessary as boot.ini isn't used here.
Bootsect
The bootsect command is used to configure the master boot code to one compatible with BOOTMGR (Vista and later) or NTLDR (XP and earlier). The bootsect command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 8. The bootsect command is also available in Windows 7 and Windows Vista but only from the Command Prompt available in System Recovery Options.
Break
The break command sets or clears extended CTRL+C checking on DOS systems. The break command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS. The break command is available in Windows XP and later versions of Windows to provide compatibility with MS-DOS files but it has no effect in Windows itself.
Cacls
The cacls command is used to display or change access control lists of files. The cacls command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP. The cacls command is being phased out in favor of the icacls command, which should be used instead in all versions of Windows after Windows XP.
Call
The call command is used to run a script or batch program from within another script or batch program. The call command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS. The call command has no effect outside of a script or batch file. In other words, running the call command at the Command Prompt or MS-DOS prompt will do nothing.
Cd
The cd command is the shorthand version of the chdir command. The cd command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Certreq
The certreq command is used to perform various certification authority (CA) certificate functions. The certreq command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Certutil
The certutil command is used to dump and display certification authority (CA) configuration information in addition to other CA functions. The certutil command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Change
The change command changes various terminal server settings like install modes, COM port mappings, and logons. The change command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Chcp
Use chcp to display or set the active code page number. It's available in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Chdir
The chdir command is used to display the drive letter and folder that you are currently in. Chdir can also be used to change the drive and/or directory that you want to work in. The chdir command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Checknetisolation
The checknetisolation command is used to test apps that require network capabilities. The checknetisolation command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 8.
Chglogon
The chglogon command enables, disables, or drains terminal server session logins. The chglogon command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista. Executing the chglogon command is the same as executing change logon.
Chgport
The chgport command can be used to display or change COM port mappings for DOS compatibility. The chgport command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista. Executing the chgport command is the same as executing change port.
Chgusr
The chgusr command is used to change the install mode for the terminal server. The chgusr command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista. Executing the chgusr command is the same as executing change user.
Chkdsk
The chkdsk command, often referred to as check disk, is used to identify and correct certain hard drive errors. The chkdsk command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Chkntfs
The chkntfs command is used to configure or display the checking of the disk drive during the Windows boot process. The chkntfs command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Choice
The choice command is used within a script or batch program to provide a list of choices and return the value of that choice to the program. The choice command is available in MS-DOS and all versions of Windows except Windows XP. Use the set command with the /p switch in place of the choice command in batch files and scripts that you plan to use in Windows XP.
Cipher
The cipher command shows or changes the encryption status of files and folders on NTFS partitions. The cipher command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Clip
The clip command is used to redirect the output from any command to the clipboard in Windows. The clip command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Cls
The cls command clears the screen of all previously entered commands and other text. The cls command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Cmd
The cmd command starts a new instance of the cmd.exe command interpreter. The cmd command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Cmdkey
The cmdkey command is used to show, create, and remove stored user names and passwords. The cmdkey command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Cmstp
The cmstp command installs or uninstalls a Connection Manager service profile. The cmstp command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Color
The color command is used to change the colors of the text and background within the Command Prompt window. The color command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Command
The command command starts a new instance of the command.com command interpreter. The command command is available in MS-DOS as well as in all 32-bit versions of Windows. The command command is not available in 64-bit versions of Windows.
Comp
The comp command is used to compare the contents of two files or sets of files. The comp command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Compact
The compact command is used to show or change the compression state of files and directories on NTFS partitions. The compact command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Convert
Convert FAT or FAT32 volumes to NTFS using the convert command. It's available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Copy
The copy command does simply that — it copies one or more files from one location to another. The copy command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS. The xcopy command is considered to be a more "powerful" version of the copy command.
Cscript
The cscript command is used to execute scripts via Microsoft Script Host. The cscript command is available in all versions of Windows. The cscript command is most popularly used to manage printers from the command line using scripts like prncnfg.vbs, prndrvr.vbs, prnmngr.vbs, and others.
Ctty
The ctty command is used to change the default input and output devices for the system. The ctty command is available in Windows 98 and 95 as well as in MS-DOS. The functions provided by the ctty command were no longer necessary beginning in Windows XP because the command.com interpreter (MS-DOS) is no longer the default command line interpreter.
Date
The date command is used to show or change the current date. The date command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Dblspace
The dblspace command is used to create or configure DoubleSpace compressed drives. The dblspace command is available in Windows 98 and 95, as well as in MS-DOS. DriveSpace, executed using the drvspace command, is an updated version of DoubleSpace. Windows began handling compression beginning in Windows XP.
Debug
The debug command starts Debug, a command line application used to test and edit programs. The debug command is available in MS-DOS as well as in all 32-bit versions of Windows. The debug command is not available in 64-bit versions of Windows.
Defrag
The defrag command is used to defragment a drive you specify. The defrag command is the command line version of Microsoft's Disk Defragmenter. The defrag command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Del
Use the del command to delete one or more files. Available in all Windows versions and MS-DOS, it's identical to the erase command
Deltree
The deltree command is used to delete a directory and all the files and subdirectories within it. The deltree command is available in Windows 98 and 95, as well as in MS-DOS. Beginning in Windows XP, a folder and its files and subfolders can be removed using the /s function of the rmdir command. Deltree was no longer needed with this new rmdir ability so the command was removed.
Diantz
The diantz command is used to losslessly compress one or more files. The diantz command is sometimes called Cabinet Maker. The diantz command is available in Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP. The diantz command is the same as the makecab command.
Dir
The dir command is used to display a list of files and folders contained inside the folder that you are currently working in. The dir command also displays other important information like the hard drive's serial number, the total number of files listed, their combined size, the total amount of free space left on the drive, and more. The dir command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Diskcomp
The diskcomp command is used to compare the contents of two floppy disks. The diskcomp command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS, with the exclusion of Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Diskcopy
The diskcopy command is used to copy the entire contents of one floppy disk to another. The diskcopy command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS, with the exclusion of Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Diskpart
The diskpart command is used to create, manage, and delete hard drive partitions. The diskpart command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP. The diskpart command replaced the fdisk command beginning in Windows XP.
Diskperf
The diskperf command is used to manage disk performance counters remotely. The diskperf command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Diskraid
The diskraid command starts the DiskRAID tool which is used to manage and configure RAID arrays. The diskraid command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Dism
The dism command starts the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool (DISM). The DISM tool is used to manage features in Windows images. The dism command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Dispdiag
The dispdiag command is used to output a log of information about the display system. The dispdiag command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Djoin
The djoin command is used to create a new computer account in a domain. The djoin command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Doskey
The doskey command is used to edit command lines, create macros, and recall previously entered commands. The doskey command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Dosshell
The dosshell command starts DOS Shell, a graphical file management tool for MS-DOS. The dosshell command is available in Windows 95 (in MS-DOS mode) and also in MS-DOS version 6.0 and later MS-DOS versions that were upgraded from previous versions that contained the dosshell command. A graphical file manager, Windows Explorer, became an integrated part of the operating system beginning in Windows 95.
Dosx
The dosx command is used to start DOS Protected Mode Interface (DPMI), a special mode designed to give MS-DOS applications access to more than the normally allowed 640 KB. The dosx command is available in Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP. The dosx command is not available in 64-bit versions of Windows. The dosx command and DPMI is only available in Windows to support older MS-DOS programs.
Driverquery
The driverquery command is used to show a list of all installed drivers. The driverquery command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Drvspace
The drvspace command is used to create or configure DriveSpace compressed drives. The drvspace command is available in Windows 98 and 95, as well as in MS-DOS. DriveSpace is an updated version of DoubleSpace, executed using the dblspace command. Windows began handling compression beginning in Windows XP.
Echo
Use the echo command to display messages, typically within script or batch files. You can also use it to turn the echoing feature on or off. The echo command is available in every version of Windows and MS-DOS.
Edit
The edit command starts the MS-DOS Editor, allowing you to create and modify text files. It's available in MS-DOS and all 32-bit Windows versions but isn't available in 64-bit Windows versions.
Edlin
The edlin command starts the Edlin tool, which creates and modifies text files from the command line. It's available in all 32-bit versions of Windows but not in 64-bit versions. In MS-DOS, you can use the `edlin` command only up to version 5.0. So, unless your MS-DOS was upgraded from 5.0 or earlier, you won't see it.
Emm386
The emm386 command gives MS-DOS access to more than 640 KB of memory (RAM). It's available in Windows 98, Windows 95, and MS-DOS. Starting with Windows 95, Windows uses its own extended and expanded memory management.
Endlocal
The endlocal command ends the localization of environment changes within a batch or script file. You can use this command in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Erase
The erase command deletes one or more files. It's available in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS. This command functions the same as the `del` command.
Esentutl
The esentutl command manages Extensible Storage Engine (ESE) databases. It's available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Eventcreate
The eventcreate command lets you create a custom event in an event log. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Eventtriggers
The eventtriggers command allows you to configure and display event triggers, but it's only available in Windows XP. Starting with Windows Vista, you create event triggers using the Attach Task To This Event feature in Event Viewer, making the `eventtriggers` command unnecessary.
Exe2bin
The exe2bin command converts an executable EXE file to a binary file. It's available in 32-bit versions of Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP, but not in any 64-bit version of Windows.
Exit
The exit command ends the cmd.exe session in Windows or the command.com session in MS-DOS that you're currently working in. It's available in all Windows versions and in MS-DOS.
Expand
The expand command extracts files and folders from Microsoft Cabinet (CAB) files. It's available in MS-DOS and all Windows versions, but not in the 64-bit version of Windows XP.
Extrac32
The extrac32 command extracts files and folders from Microsoft Cabinet (CAB) files. It's available in all Windows versions and functions as a CAB extraction tool. Where possible, use the `expand` command instead of `extrac32` for better functionality.
Extract
The extract command is used to retrieve files and folders from Microsoft Cabinet (CAB) files in Windows 98 and 95. It was replaced by the `expand` command starting with Windows XP.
Fasthelp
The fasthelp command provides more detailed information on any of the other MS-DOS commands. The fasthelp command is only available in MS-DOS. The help command replaced the fasthelp command beginning in Windows 95.
Fastopen
The fastopen command adds a program's hard drive location to a list in memory, which can improve launch times by removing the need for MS-DOS to search for the application on the drive. This command is available in MS-DOS and all 32-bit versions of Windows, but not in 64-bit versions. `Fastopen` is only supported in Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP to help with older MS-DOS files.
Fc
The fc command compares two files or sets of files and displays the differences. It's available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Fdisk
The fdisk command lets you create, manage, and delete hard drive partitions. It was available in Windows 98, Windows 95, and MS-DOS, but was replaced by the diskpart command starting with Windows XP. You can also manage partitions through Disk Management in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Find
The find command helps you search for a specific text string in one or more files. It's available in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Findstr
The findstr command allows you to find patterns of text strings in one or more files. It's available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP
Finger
The finger command returns information about users on a remote computer that's running the Finger service. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Fltmc
The fltmc command loads, unloads, lists, and manages Filter Drivers. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Fondue
The fondue command, which stands for Features on Demand User Experience Tool, lets you install optional Windows features through the command line. You can use the fondue command on Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 8. Alternatively, you can install optional Windows features via the Programs and Features applet in the Control Panel.
For
The for command starts a specified program within the MS-DOS subsystem. This command is only available in 32-bit versions of Windows XP and is used for MS-DOS programs that Windows XP doesn't recognize as such.
Forcedos
The forcedos command is used to start the specified program in the MS-DOS subsystem. The forcedos command is only available in 32-bit versions of Windows XP. The forcedos command is only used for MS-DOS programs that are not recognized as such by Windows XP.
Forfiles
The forfiles command lets you select one or more files to run a specific command on. It's commonly used within batch or script files and is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Format
Use the format command to format a drive in the file system you specify. It's available in all Windows versions and MS-DOS. You can also perform drive formatting from Disk Management in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Fsutil
The fsutil command lets you perform different FAT and NTFS file system tasks, such as managing reparse points and sparse files, dismounting, and extending volumes. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Ftp
The ftp command is used to transfer files to and from another computer, which must be set up as an FTP server. This command is available in all versions of Windows.
Ftype
The ftype command defines a default program to open a specified file type. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Getmac
The getmac command shows the media access control (MAC) address of all the network controllers on your system. You can use the getmac command in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Goto
The goto command in a batch or script file directs the command process to a labeled line within the script. The goto command works in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Gpresult
The gpresult command displays Group Policy settings. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Gpupdate
The gpupdate command refreshes Group Policy settings. This command is supported in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Graftabl
The graftabl command lets Windows show an extended character set in graphics mode. It's available in all Windows versions and in MS-DOS up to version 5.0. Note that it’s not available in 64-bit versions of Windows.
Graphics
The graphics command loads a program that prints graphics. It's available in MS-DOS and all 32-bit versions of Windows. However, it isn't available in 64-bit versions of Windows.
Help
The help command offers detailed information about any other Command Prompt or MS-DOS command. You can use it in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Hostname
The hostname command displays your computer's name on the network. It's supported in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Hwrcomp
The hwrcomp command compiles custom dictionaries for handwriting recognition. It's available in Windows 8 and Windows 7.
Hwrreg
The hwrreg command installs a previously compiled custom dictionary for handwriting recognition. It's supported in Windows 8 and Windows 7.
Icacls
The icacls command lets you display or modify access control lists (ACLs) for files. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista. This command is an updated version of the cacls command.
If
The if command performs conditional functions in a batch file. It's available in all versions of Windows and in MS-DOS
Interlnk
The interlnk command lets you connect two computers using a serial or parallel connection to share files and printers. This command is only available in MS-DOS. In all Windows versions, networking functions provide the ability to connect computers directly.
Intersvr
Use the intersvr command to start the Interlnk server and copy Interlnk files between computers. This command is also exclusive to MS-DOS. For direct computer connections, all Windows versions use networking functions.
Ipconfig
The ipconfig command displays detailed IP information for each network adapter using TCP/IP. You can also use it to release and renew IP addresses on systems configured to receive them through a DHCP server. This command is available in all Windows versions.
Ipxroute
Use the ipxroute command to display and change information about IPX (Internetwork Packet Exchange) routing tables. This command is available in Windows XP. Microsoft removed the built-in NetWare client starting in Windows Vista, which also removed the ipxroute command.
Irftp
The irftp command lets you transmit files over an infrared link. It's available in Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Iscsicli
The iscsicli command launches the Microsoft iSCSI Initiator, which is used to manage iSCSI (Internet Small Computer Systems Interface). This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Kb16
The kb16 command supports MS-DOS files that require keyboard configuration for a specific language. It's available in Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP. However, `kb16` isn't available in 64-bit versions of Windows. It replaced the `keyb` command starting with Windows XP but only exists to support older MS-DOS files.
Keyb
The keyb command is used to configure a keyboard for a specific language. It's available in Windows 98, 95, and MS-DOS. For later versions of Windows, refer to the `kb16` command as an equivalent. Beginning with Windows XP, keyboard language settings are managed through the Region and Language or Regional and Language Options Control Panel applets, depending on your Windows version.
Klist
The klist command lists Kerberos service tickets and can also purge them. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Ksetup
The ksetup command configures connections to a Kerberos server. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Ktmutil
The ktmutil command initiates the Kernel Transaction Manager utility, which is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Label
The label command allows you to manage the volume label of a disk. It's available in every version of Windows, as well as MS-DOS.
Lh
The lh command stands for `loadhigh` and is available in Windows 98, Windows 95, and MS-DOS.
Licensingdiag
The licensingdiag command generates text-based logs and data files with product activation and Windows licensing info. It's available in Windows 11, 10, and 8.
Loadfix
The loadfix command loads a specified program into the first 64K of memory, then runs it. It's available in MS-DOS and all 32-bit versions of Windows, but not in 64-bit versions.
Loadhigh
The loadhigh command lets you load a program into high memory. It's typically used within the autoexec.bat file. This command is available in Windows 98, 95, and MS-DOS. From Windows XP onward, memory management is automatic.
Lock
The lock command lets you lock a drive for direct disk access by a program. It's only available in Windows 98 and 95. Drive locking isn't supported from Windows XP onward.
Lodctr
The lodctr command updates registry values tied to performance counters. It's available in all Windows versions.
Logman
Use the logman command to create and manage Event Trace Sessions and Performance logs. It also supports various functions of Performance Monitor. You can access the logman command on Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Logoff
Use the logoff command to end a session. It's available on Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Lpq
The lpq command shows the status of a print queue on a computer using the Line Printer Daemon (LPD). While it's available in all Windows versions, it isn't enabled by default in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, or Vista. To use it, turn on the LPD Print Service and LPR Port Monitor features in the Control Panel under Programs and Features.
Lpr
You use the lpr command to send a file to a computer running the Line Printer Daemon (LPD). It's available in all Windows versions but isn't enabled by default in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, or Vista. To enable it, activate the LPD Print Service and LPR Port Monitor features via the Control Panel's Programs and Features.
Makecab
The makecab command is used to compress files without losing data. Sometimes called Cabinet Maker, this command is available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. It's identical to the `diantz` command, which was discontinued after Windows 7.
Manage-bde
The manage-bde command lets you configure BitLocker Drive Encryption directly from the command line. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7. In Windows Vista, a script called `manage-bde.wsf` can be used with the `cscript` command to manage BitLocker tasks from the command line.
Md
The md command is a shorter version of the `mkdir` command. It's available in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Mem
The mem command provides information about used and free memory areas and programs currently loaded into memory in the MS-DOS subsystem. The `mem` command is available in MS-DOS and all 32-bit versions of Windows but not in 64-bit versions.
Memmaker
The memmaker command starts MemMaker, a memory optimization tool available in Windows 98, 95, and MS-DOS. Memory usage is automatically optimized beginning in Windows XP.
Mkdir
The mkdir command creates a new folder. The `mkdir` command is available in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Mklink
Use the mklink command to create a symbolic link. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Mode
Use the mode command to configure system devices, such as COM and LPT ports. This command is available in all Windows versions and MS-DOS.
Mofcomp
The mofcomp command displays data from a Managed Object Format (MOF) file. It's available in all Windows versions.
More
The more command displays information from a text file and paginates results from any Command Prompt or MS-DOS command. It's available in all Windows versions and MS-DOS.
Mount
The mount command mounts Network File System (NFS) network shares. Available in Windows 7 and Vista, it requires enabling the Services for NFS feature via Programs and Features in Control Panel. It's unavailable in Windows 8, 10, and 11 due to the discontinuation of Service for UNIX (SFU).
Mountvol
The mountvol command lets you display, create, or remove volume mount points. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Move
Use the move command to transfer one or more files from one folder to another, or to rename directories. The `move` command is available in all versions of Windows, as well as in MS-DOS.
Mrinfo
The mrinfo command provides information about a router's interfaces and neighbors. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Msav
The msav command launches Microsoft Antivirus and is only available in MS-DOS. Microsoft Antivirus was designed exclusively for MS-DOS and Windows 3.x. For Windows XP and later versions, Microsoft offers Microsoft Security Essentials as an optional virus protection suite, and third-party antivirus tools are also available for all Windows versions.
Msbackup
The msbackup command starts Microsoft Backup, a tool for backing up and restoring files. This command is available only in MS-DOS. In Windows 95 and subsequent versions, Microsoft Backup replaced the `msbackup` command, which evolved into Backup and Restore in later Windows versions.
Mscdex
The mscdex command allows MS-DOS to access CD-ROM drives. It's available in Windows 98, Windows 95, and MS-DOS. Starting with Windows XP, CD-ROM drive access for the MS-DOS subsystem is built into Windows, making the `mscdex` command obsolete in later versions.
Msd
The msd command launches Microsoft Diagnostics, a system information tool exclusive to MS-DOS. It was replaced by the System Information tool starting with Windows 95.
Msg
The msg command lets you send a message to a user. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Msiexec
The msiexec command starts the Windows Installer, which is used to install and configure software. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Muiunattend
The muiunattend command begins the Multilanguage User Interface unattended setup process. You can use this command in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Nbtstat
The nbtstat command displays TCP/IP details and various statistics about a remote computer. It's available in all Windows versions.
Net
The net command allows you to display, configure, and adjust many network settings. This command is found in all Windows versions.
Net1
The net1 command allows you to display, configure, and correct various network settings. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP. Instead of net1, use the `net` command. The net1 command was introduced in Windows NT and 2000 to temporarily fix a Y2K issue with net, which was resolved before Windows XP was released. Net1 persists in newer Windows versions solely for compatibility with older programs and scripts.
Netcfg
The netcfg command installs the Windows Preinstallation Environment (WinPE), a streamlined version of Windows for deploying workstations. You can use the `netcfg` command in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Netsh
The netsh command launches Network Shell, a command-line utility for managing network configurations on both local and remote computers. It's accessible in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Netstat
The netstat command is commonly used to show all open network connections and listening ports. It's available in all versions of Windows.
Nfsadmin
The nfsadmin command manages the Server for Network File System (NFS) or Client for NFS from the command line. It's available in Windows 7 and Windows Vista, but not by default. You can enable it by turning on the Services for NFS feature in the Programs and Features section of the Control Panel. The nfsadmin command isn't available in Windows 11, 10, or 8 because the Services for UNIX (SFU) was discontinued.
Nlsfunc
The nlsfunc command loads information specific to a particular country or region. It's available in MS-DOS and all 32-bit versions of Windows but not in 64-bit versions. Nlsfunc is only accessible in Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, and 10 to support older MS-DOS files.
Nltest
The nltest command tests secure channels between Windows computers in a domain and between domain controllers that trust other domains. This command is available in Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11.
Nslookup
The nslookup command is primarily used to display the hostname of a specified IP address. It queries your configured DNS server to find the IP address. You can use the nslookup command in Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11.
Ntbackup
Use the ntbackup command to perform various backup functions from the Command Prompt, a batch file, or a script file. This command is available in Windows XP but was replaced by wbadmin starting with Windows Vista.
Ntsd
The ntsd command allows you to perform specific command-line debugging tasks. It’s available in Windows XP but was removed starting with Windows Vista due to added dump file support in Task Manager.
Ocsetup
The ocsetup command launches the Windows Optional Component Setup tool, which installs additional Windows features. This command is available in Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista. However, starting with Windows 8, Microsoft has deprecated the `ocsetup` command in favor of the `dism` (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) command.
Openfiles
The openfiles command displays and disconnects open files and folders on your system. It is compatible with Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Path
The path command displays or sets a specific path for executable files. This command is available across all versions of Windows, including MS-DOS.
Pathping
The pathping command works similarly to the `tracert` command but also provides information about network latency and loss at each hop. You can use the `pathping` command in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Reporting detailed network statistics helps diagnose network connectivity issues efficiently.
Pause
The pause command is used in a batch or script file to halt the processing temporarily. When the `pause` command is initiated, a ""Press any key to continue…"" message appears in the command window. The `pause` command is supported in all Windows versions and MS-DOS.
Pentnt
The pentnt command helps detect floating-point division errors in Intel Pentium chips. It's also used to enable floating-point emulation and disable floating-point hardware. This command was available in Windows XP but was removed starting with Windows Vista due to the reduced use of Intel Pentium CPUs at that time.
Ping
The ping command sends an Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Echo Request message to a specified remote computer to verify IP-level connectivity. It's available in all versions of Windows.
Pkgmgr
The pkgmgr command starts the Windows Package Manager from the Command Prompt. The Package Manager lets you install, uninstall, configure, and update features and packages for Windows. The pkgmgr command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Pnpunattend
The pnpunattend command automates the installation of hardware device drivers. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Pnputil
Use the pnputil command to start the Microsoft Plug and Play (PnP) Utility, which allows installation of a Plug and Play device from the command line. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Popd
The popd command changes the current directory to the one stored most recently by the `pushd` command. You often use `popd` in batch or script files. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Power
The power command helps reduce a computer's power consumption by monitoring software and hardware devices. It's available in Windows 98, Windows 95, and MS-DOS. Starting with Windows XP, this command was replaced by integrated power management functions.
Powercfg
The powercfg command lets you manage Windows power management settings from the command line. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
The print command lets you print a specific text file to a selected printing device. It’s available in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Prompt
Use the prompt command to customize how the prompt text looks in Command Prompt or MS-DOS. It’s supported in all Windows versions and MS-DOS.
Pushd
The pushd command stores a directory for use, usually within a batch file or script. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Pwlauncher
The pwlauncher command enables, disables, or shows the status of your Windows To Go startup options. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 8.
Qappsrv
The qappsrv command displays all Remote Desktop Session Host servers available on your network. It works on Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Qbasic
The qbasic command launches QBasic, an MS-DOS-based programming environment for the BASIC programming language. While available for Windows 98 and 95, as well as MS-DOS, it's not installed by default on Windows 98 or 95. You can find it on the installation disc or disks.
Qprocess
The qprocess command lets you see information about running processes. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Query
Use the query command to check the status of a specific service. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Quser
The quser command displays information about users currently logged in to the system. It’s available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Qwinsta
The qwinsta command displays information about active Remote Desktop Sessions. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Rasautou
The rasautou command manages Remote Access Dialer AutoDial addresses. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Rasdial
The rasdial command starts or ends a network connection for a Microsoft client. You can use it in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Rcp
The rcp command copies files between a Windows computer and a system running the `rshd` daemon. It's available in Windows 7, Vista, and XP. By default, `rcp` isn't enabled in Windows Vista or 7, but you can activate it by turning on the Subsystem for UNIX-based Applications from the Control Panel's Programs and Features, and then installing the Utilities and SDK for UNIX-based Applications; more info is available for [Windows Vista](#) and [Windows 7](#). `rcp` isn't available in Windows 11, 10, or 8 as the Service for UNIX (SFU) was discontinued.
Rd
The rd command is a shorthand for the `rmdir` command. You can use rd in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Rdpsign
The rdpsign command signs a Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) file. It's available in Windows 7.
Reagentc
The reagentc command configures the Windows Recovery Environment (RE). This command is supported in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Recimg
The recimg command creates a custom refresh image and is available in Windows 8.
Recover
The recover command lets you recover readable data from a bad or defective disk. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Reg
The reg command manages the Windows Registry from the command line, allowing you to perform tasks like adding registry keys and exporting the registry. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Regini
The regini command lets you set or change registry permissions and values from the command line. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Register-cimprovider
The register-cimprovider command registers a Common Information Model (CIM) Provider in Windows. You can use it in Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 8.
Regsvr32
The regsvr32 command registers a DLL file as a command component in the Windows Registry. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Relog
The relog command creates new performance logs from data in existing performance logs. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Rem
The rem command records comments or remarks in a batch or script file. It's supported in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Ren
The ren command is a shortened form of the `rename` command. You'll find the `ren` command in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Rename
The rename command lets you change the name of a specified file. This command is available in all Windows versions and MS-DOS.
Repair-bde
The repair-bde command repairs or decrypts a damaged drive encrypted with BitLocker. It's available in Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7.
Replace
The replace command lets you replace one or more files with different files. It's available in all Windows versions and MS-DOS.
Reset
The reset command, run as `reset session`, restores the session subsystem software and hardware to their initial settings. It's available from Windows XP through Windows 11.
Restore
The restore command helps you restore files backed up with the `backup` command. It's available only in MS-DOS. Although the `backup` command was limited to MS-DOS 5.00, the `restore` command was included in later versions of MS-DOS to ensure file restoration from earlier backups.
Rexec
The rexec command allows you to run commands on remote computers that have the `rexec` daemon running. It's available in Windows Vista and Windows XP. While the `rsh` command isn't enabled by default in Windows Vista, you can activate it by turning on the Subsystem for UNIX-based Applications in Control Panel under Programs and Features, then installing the Utilities and SDK for UNIX-based Applications. Although the `rexec` command isn't available in Windows 7, you can still execute it in Windows XP using Windows XP Mode if needed.
Rmdir
The rmdir command lets you delete an existing or completely empty folder. It’s available in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Robocopy
The robocopy command, short for Robust File Copy, is used to copy files and directories from one location to another. It’s available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and Vista. This command is superior to `copy` and `xcopy` because it supports many more options.
Route
The route command manipulates network routing tables and is available in all versions of Windows.
Rpcinfo
The rpcinfo command initiates a remote procedure call (RPC) to an RPC server and provides a report on its findings. It's available in Windows 7 and Windows Vista. However, in these versions, rpcinfo isn't enabled by default. To access it, activate the Services for NFS feature from the Programs and Features section in the Control Panel. Note that rpcinfo isn't available in Windows 11, 10, or 8, as the Service for UNIX (SFU) feature was discontinued.
Rpcping
The rpcping command pings a server using remote procedure call (RPC) technology. You can find this command in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and Vista.
Rsh
The rsh command allows you to run commands on remote computers with the rsh daemon. It's available in Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP but not by default in Vista or Windows 7. You can enable it by turning on the Subsystem for UNIX-based Applications in Control Panel's Programs and Features, then installing the Utilities and SDK for UNIX-based Applications using the provided links for Windows Vista and Windows 7. The rsh command is not available in Windows 11, 10, or 8 because the Service for UNIX (SFU) has been discontinued.
Rsm
The rsm command manages media resources through Removable Storage, available in Windows Vista and Windows XP. It was optional in Vista, and removed in Windows 7 when the Removable Storage Manager was discontinued. If you're encountering issues executing the command in Windows Vista, search for it in the C:\Windows\winsxs folder.
Runas
The runas command lets you execute a program using another user's credentials. It's available across Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Rwinsta
The rwinsta command is a shorthand for the reset session command. It's available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Sc
The sc command is used to configure service information and communicates with the Service Control Manager. It's available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Scandisk
The scandisk command launches Microsoft ScanDisk, a disk repair program. It's available in Windows 98, 95, and MS-DOS. Starting with Windows XP, the chkdsk command replaced scandisk.
Scanreg
The scanreg command initiates Windows Registry Checker, used for basic registry repair and backup. It's available in Windows 98 and 95. Starting with Windows XP, changes in Windows Registry operations made `scanreg` unnecessary.
Schtasks
The schtasks command allows you to schedule specific programs or commands to run at certain times. You can create, delete, query, change, run, and end scheduled tasks with this command. It's available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Sdbinst
The sdbinst command is used to deploy customized SDB database files. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Secedit
The secedit command lets you configure and analyze system security by comparing the current security settings to a template. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Set
The set command is used to display, enable, or disable environment variables in MS-DOS and the Command Prompt. It's available in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Setlocal
The setlocal command begins the localization of environment changes in a batch or script file. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Setspn
The setspn command manages Service Principal Names (SPN) for an Active Directory (AD) service account. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Setver
Use the setver command to specify the MS-DOS version number that MS-DOS reports to a program. It's available in MS-DOS and all 32-bit versions of Windows, but it's not available in 64-bit Windows versions.
Setx
Use the setx command to create or modify environment variables in either the user or system environment. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Sfc
The sfc command checks and replaces crucial Windows system files. Referred to as System File Checker or Windows Resource Checker based on the OS version, the `sfc` command can be used in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Shadow
You can use the shadow command to monitor another Remote Desktop Services session. It's available on Windows 7, Vista, and XP
Share
The share command installs file locking and sharing functions in MS-DOS. It's available in MS-DOS and all 32-bit versions of Windows, but not in 64-bit versions. You can find the `share` command in Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP to support older MS-DOS files.
Shift
Use the shift command to change the position of replaceable parameters in a batch or script file. This command is available in all Windows versions and MS-DOS.
Showmount
The showmount command displays information about Network File System (NFS)-mounted file systems. Available in Windows Vista and 7, it requires enabling the Services for NFS feature through Programs and Features in the Control Panel. The command is unavailable in Windows 11, 10, or 8, as Service for UNIX (SFU) has been discontinued.
Shutdown
You can use the shutdown command to shut down, restart, or log off your current system or a remote computer. This command is available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Smartdrv
The smartdrv command installs and configures SMARTDrive, which is a disk caching utility for MS-DOS. This command is available in Windows 98 and 95, in addition to MS-DOS. Since caching became automatic starting with Windows XP, the smartdrv command is no longer needed.
Sort
Use the sort command to read data from a specified input, sort it, and then output the sorted results to the Command Prompt, a file, or another device. This command is available in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Start
The start command opens a new command line window for running a specified program or command. You can also use it to launch an application without creating a new window. This command is available in every version of Windows.
Subst
The subst command associates a local path with a drive letter, similar to how the net use command works, but for local paths rather than shared network paths. It's available across all Windows versions and MS-DOS, replacing the assign command starting with MS-DOS 6.0.
Sxstrace
The sxstrace command starts the WinSxs Tracing Utility, which is a programming diagnostic tool. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Sys
The sys command copies MS-DOS system files and the command interpreter to a disk. It is available in Windows 98, Windows 95, and MS-DOS. This command is commonly used to create a simple bootable disk or hard drive. Starting with Windows XP, `sys` was removed because Windows system files are too large for a disk.
Systeminfo
The systeminfo command displays basic Windows configuration information for a local or remote computer. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Takeown
The takedown command lets you regain access to a file if you're an administrator who was previously denied access when reassigning the file's ownership. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Taskkill
The taskkill command to end a running task. It's the command line's version of terminating a process in the Task Manager. You can use `taskkill` in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Tasklist
Displays a list of applications, services, and the Process ID (PID) currently running on either a local or a remote computer. The tasklist command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Tcmsetup
Use the tcmsetup command to set up or disable the Telephony Application Programming Interface (TAPI) client. It's available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Telnet
Use the telnet command to communicate with remote computers using the Telnet protocol. It's available in all Windows versions, but not enabled by default in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, or Vista. You can enable it through the Telnet Client feature in Programs and Features in the Control Panel.
Tftp
The tftp command lets you transfer files to and from a remote computer that runs the Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP) service or daemon. You can use the `tftp` command in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP. This command isn't enabled by default in every Windows version, but you can turn it on in Programs and Features in Control Panel by enabling the TFTP Client Windows feature.
Time
The time command displays or changes the current time. It's available in all Windows versions and in MS-DOS.
Timeout
Use the timeout command in batch or script files to set a specified timeout value during a procedure or to ignore keypresses. This command is available on Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and Vista.
Title
Set the Command Prompt window title using the title command, available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Tlntadmn
Administer a local or remote computer running a Telnet Server using the tlntadmn command, which is available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. Note that this command isn’t available by default in some Windows versions; enable it by turning on the Telnet Server feature in the Programs and Features section of the Control Panel.
Tpmvscmgr
The tpmvscmgr command creates and destroys TPM virtual smart cards. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 8.
Tracerpt
The tracerpt command processes event trace logs or real-time data from instrumented event trace providers. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Tracert
The tracert command is used to track the path data takes from your computer to a specified remote machine. It sends Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Echo Request messages with progressively higher Time to Live (TTL) values. You can see the IP addresses and hostnames of each router interface along this path, if available. This command works on all Windows versions.
Tree
The tree command graphically shows the folder structure for a specific drive or path. You can use it on all Windows versions and even in MS-DOS.
Tscon
The tscon command to connect a user session with a Remote Desktop session. It's available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Tsdiscon
The tsdiscon command disconnects a Remote Desktop session. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Tskill
The tskill command ends a specified process. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Tsshutdn
The tsshutdn command lets you remotely shut down or restart a terminal server. You can use the `tsshutdn` command in Windows XP. However, from Windows Vista onward, this feature is available through the more powerful `shutdown` command, leading to the removal of tsshutdn.
Type
Use the type command to display the contents of a text file. This command is accessible in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS.
Typeperf
The typerperf command provides performance data either directly in the Command Prompt window or saves it to a specified log file. You can use the `typeperf` command in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP
Tzutil
The tzutil command lets you display or configure your system's current time zone. You can also use it to enable or disable Daylight Saving Time adjustments. The tzutil command is available in Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7.
Umount
The umount command removes Network File System (NFS) mounted network shares. It's available in Windows 7 and Vista. However, it isn't enabled by default in these versions. You must activate the Services for NFS feature from Programs and Features in the Control Panel. The umount command isn't available in Windows 11, 10, or 8 because Service for UNIX (SFU) has been discontinued.
Undelete
The undelete command undoes deletions performed with the MS-DOS `delete` command and is exclusive to MS-DOS. This command was removed starting with Windows 95 due to the introduction of the Recycle Bin. Additionally, you can find free file recovery programs from third-party software providers.
Unformat
The unformat command reverses formatting on a drive done by the MS-DOS `format` command, also limited to MS-DOS. This command was discarded beginning with Windows 95 due to changes in the file system.
Unlock
The unlock command is used to unlock a drive, allowing programs to disable direct disk access. It's only available in Windows 95 and 98. As of Windows XP, drive locking is no longer supported.
Unlodctr
The unlodctr command removes Explain text and performance counter names for a service or device driver from the Windows Registry. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Vaultcmd
Use the vaultcmd command to create, remove, and display stored credentials. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Ver
The ver command lets you display the current version number of Windows or MS-DOS. It's available in all Windows versions and MS-DOS.
Verify
The verify command enables or disables the ability of Command Prompt or MS-DOS to confirm that files are written correctly to a disk. This command is available in all Windows versions and MS-DOS.
The vol command displays the volume label and serial number of a specified disk, if this information exists. It is available in all Windows versions and MS-DOS.
Vsafe
The vsafe command starts VSafe, a basic virus protection system for MS-DOS. It's available only on MS-DOS and was designed for MS-DOS and Windows 3.x. For Windows XP and later, Microsoft offers an optional virus protection suite called Microsoft Security Essentials, while third-party antivirus tools are available for all Windows versions.
Vssadmin
The vssadmin command launches the Volume Shadow Copy Service administrative tool. It displays current volume shadow copy backups and installed shadow copy writers and providers. The `vssadmin` command is available in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
W32tm
The w32tm command helps you troubleshoot Windows Time issues. You can use it in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
Waitfor
The waitfor command lets you send or wait for a system signal. It works with Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Wbadmin
Use the wbadmin command to start and stop backup tasks. You can also display details about past backups, list items within a backup, and check the status of active backups. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista. It replaced the ntbackup command starting with Windows Vista.
Wecutil
The wecutil command manages subscriptions to events forwarded from computers that support WS-Management. You can use this command in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Wevtutil
The wevtutil command launches the Windows Events Command Line Utility. This utility helps you manage event logs and publishers. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Where
The where command helps you search for files that match a specific pattern. It's available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Whoami
The whoami command retrieves your username and group information on a network. It’s available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Winmgmt
The winmgmt command launches the command line version of Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI), a scripting tool within Windows. It's available in all versions of Windows
Winrm
The winrm command launches the command-line version of Windows Remote Management. It's used to manage secure communications with both local and remote computers via web services. The `winrm` command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Winrs
The winrs command is used to open a secure command window with a remote host. You'll find the `winrs` command available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Winsat
The winsat command launches the Windows System Assessment Tool, a program that evaluates various features, attributes, and capabilities of a computer running Windows.
Wmic
The wmic command opens the Windows Management Instrumentation Command Line (WMIC), a scripting interface that simplifies using Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) and systems managed with WMI.
Wsmanhttpconfig
The wsmanhttpconfig command manages aspects of the Windows Remote Management (WinRM) service.
Xcopy
The xcopy command copies one or more files or entire directory trees from one location to another. It's generally seen as a more powerful version of the `copy` command, although `robocopy` is even more robust. You can use the `xcopy` command in all versions of Windows and MS-DOS. A variant called `xcopy32` was available in Windows 95 and 98, but regardless of whether you used `xcopy` or `xcopy32`, you were always running the most updated version of the command.
Xwizard
The xwizard command, short for Extensible Wizard, registers data in Windows, often using a preconfigured XML file. This command is available in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.