150+ Useful Windows Commands Explained with Examples (2026)

Even very early in your developer journey, you start with Windows CMD, the command line tool that lets you interact directly with your system just by typing.

You can use Windows Commands for almost everything, creating folders, fixing storage issues, cleaning temporary files to keep Windows running smoothly, downloading your favourite game or tweaking one for unlimited lives.

The Most Used Windows Commands

We start with the most popular and useful Windows Commands because everyone uses them daily. These commands help us move around the system and manage files quickly. Learning these first gives you the confidence to use the terminal like a professional.

dir

The dir command lists all files and folders in your current directory. It shows the name, size, and date of every item. We use it to see what is stored in a folder without opening File Explorer.

Example: dir

cd

The cd command stands for change directory. It lets us move from one folder to another. We use this command to navigate through the hard drive to find the location we want to work in.

Example: cd Documents

cd..

This command moves us up one level to the parent folder. It helps us go back quickly when we are inside a deep folder structure. We do not need to type the full path of the parent folder.

Example: cd..

cls

The cls command clears the entire screen of the Command Prompt window. We use it to remove clutter and start fresh. It makes the window clean and easier to read.

Example: cls

exit

The exit command closes the Command Prompt window immediately. We use it when we finish our work. It is a quick way to end the session.

Example: exit

Windows Commands for File Management

We use these Windows commands to manage our files and folders effectively. You can create, copy, move, and delete items directly from the command line. These tools are very fast and powerful for organizing data.

copy

The copy command copies one or more files to another location. We use it to duplicate files without changing the original. This command is useful for keeping backups.

Example: copy report.txt backup_folder

xcopy

The xcopy command works like copy but can copy entire directories and subdirectories. We use it when we need to copy a folder structure with all its files. It is much stronger than the basic copy command.

Example: xcopy source_folder destination_folder /e /i

move

The move command moves files or folders from one place to another. We use it to organize items by putting them in different folders. The original file is removed from the starting location.

Example: move file.txt C:\NewFolder

del

The del command deletes specific files permanently. We use it to remove files we no longer need. You should be careful because deleted files do not go to the recycle bin.

Example: del old_file.txt

erase

The erase command works exactly like del. It deletes the specified files from the disk. We use it as an alternative way to remove unwanted data.

Example: erase data.tmp

ren

The ren command renames files or folders. We use it to give a new name to an item. The file stays in the same place but gets a different title.

Example: ren name1.txt name2.txt

replace

The replace command replaces files in the destination directory with files from the source. We use it to update older files with newer versions. It is handy for keeping multiple folders synchronized.

Example: replace C:\source\new.txt C:\dest\

mkdir

The mkdir command creates a new directory or folder. We use it to make a new space for our files. You can also use md as a shorter version.

Example: mkdir NewProjects

rmdir

The rmdir command removes a directory that is empty. We use it to delete folders we do not need anymore. It will not work if the folder still contains files.

Example: rmdir EmptyFolder

attrib

The attrib command displays or changes file attributes like read-only or hidden. We use it to protect files or make them invisible. It helps us manage how the system treats specific files.

Example: attrib +r file.txt

expand

The expand command expands one or more compressed files. We use it to extract files from cabinet format (.cab) files. It is often used during Windows installations or driver updates.

Example: expand driver.cab -f:* C:\Drivers

compact

The compact command displays or alters the compression of files on NTFS partitions. We use it to save disk space by compressing data. It works directly on the file system level.

Example: compact /c myfile.txt

icacls

The icacls command displays or modifies discretionary access control lists (DACLs) on files. We use it to change file permissions for specific users. It is the modern replacement for the cacls command.

Example: icacls "file.txt" /grant User:F

Windows Commands for System Information

These Windows commands help us check the details of our computer hardware and software. We can see the operating system version, network details, and hardware status. They are essential for troubleshooting and system checks.

systeminfo

The systeminfo command displays a complete computer configuration. We use it to see the operating system version, RAM, and network details. It gives a full report about the machine.

Example: systeminfo

ver

The ver command shows the operating system version number. We use it to quickly check which version of Windows is running. It is simple and fast.

Example: ver

hostname

The hostname command displays the name of your computer. We use it to identify the machine on a local network. It helps when connecting to other devices.

Example: hostname

wmic

The wmic command gives command-line access to the Windows Management Instrumentation. We use it to get detailed information about hardware and system components. It is a very powerful tool for advanced users.

Example: wmic cpu get name

driverquery

The driverquery command shows a list of all installed drivers. We use it to check if a specific driver is loaded correctly. It helps us find driver problems.

Example: driverquery

vol

The vol command displays the disk volume label and serial number. We use it to identify the current drive. It shows the name of the storage disk.

Example: vol

label

The label command creates, changes, or deletes the volume label of a disk. We use it to give a name to our hard drive or USB stick. It makes drives easier to recognize.

Example: label E: MyDataDrive

mode

The mode command configures system devices like COM ports or printer ports. We use it to change the settings of serial lines. It is mostly used by hardware technicians.

Example: mode com1: baud=9600

set

The set command displays, sets, or removes environment variables. We use it to see the current path or temporary folder locations. It helps control the session behavior.

Example: set PATH

cmd

The cmd command starts a new instance of the command interpreter. We use it to open a nested command prompt window. It allows us to run scripts in a separate space.

Example: cmd /c myscript.bat

bcdedit

The bcdedit command manages boot configuration data. We use it to change how Windows starts or to debug startup issues. It is critical for dual-boot setups.

Example: bcdedit /enum

powercfg

The powercfg command controls power settings and configures power plans. We use it to hibernate the computer or check battery health. It helps optimize energy usage.

Example: powercfg /batteryreport

Windows Commands for Network Troubleshooting

We use these Windows Commands to fix network problems and check connections. They help us see how data travels between our computer and the internet. Network admins use these commands every day.

ipconfig

The ipconfig command displays the current TCP/IP network configuration. We use it to see our IP address and other network details. It is the first step in solving network issues.

Example: ipconfig

ping

The ping command tests the reachability of a host on an IP network. We use it to see if we can connect to another computer or website. It measures the time it takes for a reply.

Example: ping google.com

tracert

The tracert command traces the path that a packet takes to a destination. We use it to see every router the data passes through. It helps us find where a network delay happens.

Example: tracert website.com

pathping

The pathping command combines features of ping and tracert. We use it to see network latency and packet loss over a route. It gives more detailed information than simple ping.

Example: pathping 192.168.1.1

getmac

The getmac command shows the MAC address of your network adapter. We use it for identifying the device on a network. It helps in setting up network filters.

Example: getmac

nslookup

The nslookup command queries the Domain Name System to get domain mapping. We use it to find the IP address associated with a domain name. It helps solve DNS problems.

Example: nslookup microsoft.com

netstat

The netstat command displays active network connections and ports. We use it to see what programs are talking to the network. It helps us find suspicious connections.

Example: netstat -an

netsh

The netsh command is a tool for network configuration. We use it to change IP addresses or reset the network stack. It is very powerful for managing network settings.

Example: netsh winsock reset

arp

The arp command displays and modifies the Address Resolution Protocol cache. We use it to see the IP-to-MAC address mapping on the local network. It helps resolve connectivity issues.

Example: arp -a

route

The route command shows and manipulates the IP routing table. We use it to tell the computer how to send data to specific networks. It helps in complex network setups.

Example: route print

ftp

The ftp command starts the File Transfer Protocol interactive session. We use it to transfer files to and from a server. It is a classic way to move data.

Example: ftp ftp.example.com

telnet

The telnet command communicates with a computer running the telnet server service. We use it to test connectivity on specific ports. It helps verify if a service is reachable.

Example: telnet example.com 80

nbstat

The nbstat command displays NetBIOS over TCP/IP protocol statistics. We use it to troubleshoot NetBIOS name resolution issues. It helps debug older network setups.

Example: nbstat -n

wevtutil

The wevtutil command lets you retrieve information about event logs and publishers. We use it to clear logs or archive them. It is great for system maintenance.

Example: wevtutil qe Application

Windows Commands for Disk and Storage

Managing hard drives is easy with these Windows commands. We can check disk space, format drives, and repair errors. These commands keep our storage healthy and organized.

chkdsk

The chkdsk command checks the disk for file system errors and bad sectors. We use it to repair problems on our hard drive. It helps prevent data loss.

Example: chkdsk C: /f

format

The format command erases all data on a disk and prepares it for use. We use it to clean a USB drive or hard drive completely. You must be very careful using this command.

Example: format E: /q

diskpart

The diskpart command is a text-mode command interpreter for disk management. We use it to create partitions and assign drive letters. It offers more control than the normal interface.

Example: diskpart

defrag

The defrag command defragments a specified volume. We use it to make the hard drive run faster by organizing data. It improves system performance.

Example: defrag C:

fsutil

The fsutil command performs tasks related to the file allocation table and NTFS file system. We use it to manage sparse files and quotas. It is an advanced utility.

Example: fsutil fsinfo drives

convert

The convert command converts a FAT32 volume to the NTFS file system. We use it to gain security features and larger file support. The data on the drive stays safe during conversion.

Example: convert C: /fs:ntfs

bootsect

The bootsect command updates the master boot code to ensure it is compatible with the current bootloader. We use it when the computer will not start. It is vital for recovery.

Example: bootsect /nt60 sys

recover

The recover command recovers readable information from a defective or corrupt disk. We use it to save files from a bad sector. It is a last resort for data retrieval.

Example: recover D:\damagedfile.txt

Windows Commands for Process and Task Management

We use these Windows Commands to control running programs and services. They help us close frozen applications or check system performance. These tools are great for speeding up a slow computer.

tasklist

The tasklist command displays a list of all currently running processes. We use it to see which programs are using memory. It helps us find system hogs.

Example: tasklist

taskkill

The taskkill command terminates a running process by its ID or name. We use it to force close a program that is not responding. It is a strong tool to stop tasks.

Example: taskkill /IM notepad.exe /F

sc

The sc command communicates with the Service Control Manager. We use it to start, stop, or query system services. It helps manage background applications.

Example: sc query wuauserv

shutdown

The shutdown command allows us to shut down or restart the computer. We use it to schedule a shutdown or restart immediately. It is faster than using the mouse.

Example: shutdown /r /t 0

tskill

The tskill command ends a process running on a specific session. We use it similar to taskkill but for user sessions. It helps disconnect users or close apps.

Example: tskill 1234

qprocess

The qprocess command displays information about processes. We use it to see which user is running a specific process. It is useful on terminal servers.

Example: qprocess

timeout

The timeout command pauses the command processor for the specified number of seconds. We use it in scripts to add a delay. It makes automated tasks easier to follow.

Example: timeout /t 10

start

The start command starts a separate command prompt window to run a program or command. We use it to open applications in a new window. It keeps the original session free.

Example: start notepad.exe

where

The where command locates and displays files that match a search pattern. We use it to find where a specific executable is located in the path. It is like a search tool.

Example: where notepad.exe

Windows Commands for User Account Management

These Windows Commands help us manage users on the computer. We can create new accounts, change passwords, and manage group memberships. They are essential for system administrators.

net user

The net user command creates or modifies user accounts. We use it to add new users or change passwords. It is the main command for account management.

Example: net user John Password123 /add

net localgroup

The net localgroup command modifies local groups. We use it to add users to groups like Administrators. It gives users specific permissions.

Example: net localgroup administrators John /add

whoami

The whoami command displays the current logged-in user. We use it to verify which account we are using. It helps when managing permissions.

Example: whoami

net group

The net group command manages global groups on domains. We use it to see which users belong to a specific group. It is mostly used in office networks.

Example: net group

net use

The net use command connects or disconnects a computer from a shared resource. We use it to map network drives to letters. It makes accessing shared files easy.

Example: net use Z: \\server\share

net session

The net session command lists or disconnects sessions between the computer and other clients. We use it to see who is connected to the machine. It is good for security checks.

Example: net session

net accounts

The net accounts command updates the user accounts database and modifies password and logon requirements. We use it to set password policies. It enforces security rules.

Example: net accounts /minpwlen:8

runas

The runas command allows a user to run specific tools and programs with different permissions. We use it to execute a command as an administrator. It helps perform tasks without logging out.

Example: runas /user:Administrator "notepad.exe"

Windows Commands for Batch Scripting

These Windows Commands are used inside script files to automate tasks. They control the flow and logic of the script. Learning these helps you automate boring daily jobs.

echo

The echo command displays messages or turns on or off the command echoing. We use it to print text to the screen. It helps users understand what a script is doing.

Example: echo Hello World

goto

The goto command moves the batch file processing to a labeled line in the script. We use it in programming to jump between sections. It controls the flow of scripts.

Example: goto :start

call

The call command calls one batch program from another. We use it to run a script within a script. It allows us to organize code into parts.

Example: call script2.bat

if

The if command performs conditional processing in batch programs. We use it to make decisions based on results. It allows scripts to be smart.

Example: if exist file.txt echo File found

for

The for command runs a specified command for each file in a set of files. We use it to loop through items. It is powerful for processing multiple files.

Example: for %f in (*.txt) do echo %f

pause

The pause command suspends processing of a batch program and displays a message. We use it to stop the script temporarily. It gives the user time to read the output.

Example: pause

shift

The shift command changes the position of replaceable parameters in a batch file. We use it to handle more than nine parameters. It extends the capabilities of scripts.

Example: shift

Windows Commands for Text and File Searching

We use these Windows Commands to look inside files and search for specific data. They act like powerful search engines for the command line. They are perfect for analyzing logs and text data.

find

The find command searches for a text string in a file or files. We use it to locate specific words inside documents. It is a simple search tool.

Example: find "error" logfile.txt

findstr

The findstr command searches for patterns of text using regular expressions. We use it for advanced searching that find cannot do. It is very flexible.

Example: findstr /s /i "windows" *.txt

sort

The sort command reads input, sorts the data, and writes the results. We use it to organize lines of text alphabetically. It helps clean up lists.

Example: sort names.txt

more

The more command displays output one screen at a time. We use it to read long files without them scrolling too fast. It pauses the text for us.

Example: more largefile.txt

type

The type command displays the contents of a text file. We use it to read files directly on the screen. It is like the cat command in Linux.

Example: type config.ini

fc

The fc command compares two files and shows the differences between them. We use it to find changes between versions. It helps verify updates.

Example: fc file1.txt file2.txt

Windows Commands for Active Directory

These Windows Commands are specific to managing a Windows Server environment. Administrators use them to manage users, computers, and policies in a domain.

dsquery

The dsquery command finds objects in the directory according to search criteria. We use it to locate users or computers. It is a filter for Active Directory.

Example: dsquery user -name John*

dsget

The dsget command displays the properties of an object found by dsquery. We use it to see details about a user account. It pulls information from the directory.

Example: dsget user "CN=John,OU=Users,DC=domain,DC=com" -dn

dsadd

The dsadd command adds specific types of objects to the directory. We use it to create new users or groups in bulk. It automates account creation.

Example: dsadd user "CN=NewUser,OU=Users,DC=domain,DC=com"

dsmod

The dsmod command modifies an existing object of a specific type in the directory. We use it to change attributes like department or phone number. It updates accounts.

Example: dsmod user "CN=John,OU=Users,DC=domain,DC=com" -dept Sales

dsrm

The dsrm command deletes an object of a specific type from the directory. We use it to remove disabled users or old computers. It cleans up the database.

Example: dsrm "CN=OldUser,OU=Users,DC=domain,DC=com"

Cool Windows Commands You Will Love

This section covers some cool Windows Commands that are fun or very useful. They include tools to create colorful text and check the weather. These commands show how powerful the command line can be.

color

The color command changes the colors of the Command Prompt window text and background. We use it to make the window look better. It helps reduce eye strain.

Example: color 0a

tree

The tree command graphically displays the folder structure of a drive or path. We use it to see a visual map of directories. It looks like a real tree of folders.

Example: tree

title

The title command sets the window title for the Command Prompt session. We use it to name the window for better organization. It helps us identify different tasks.

Example: title My Important Work

prompt

The prompt command changes the command prompt symbol. We use it to customize how the command line looks before we type. It makes the terminal personal.

Example: prompt $P$G

clip

The clip command redirects output to the Windows clipboard. We use it to copy command results directly to the paste buffer. It saves us from manual selection.

Example: dir | clip

time

The time command displays or sets the system time. We use it to fix the clock if it is wrong. It keeps the computer accurate.

Example: time 12:00

date

The date command displays or sets the system date. We use it to correct the calendar on the computer. It is important for file timestamps.

Example: date 01-01-2026

calc

The calc command opens the Windows Calculator. We use it for quick math without leaving the command line. It is very convenient.

Example: calc

notepad

The notepad command opens the Notepad text editor. We use it to write notes or edit text files quickly. It launches the graphical app from the command line.

Example: notepad

mspaint

The mspaint command opens Microsoft Paint. We use it to quickly edit images or drawings. It launches the classic paint application.

Example: mspaint

winver

The winver command displays a dialog box showing the Windows version information. We use it to see detailed build numbers. It is helpful for support.

Example: winver

write

The write command opens the old WordPad application. We use it to edit rich text documents. It acts as a simple word processor.

Example: write

control

The control command opens the Windows Control Panel. We use it to access system settings quickly. It brings up the graphical settings menu.

Example: control

msconfig

The msconfig command opens the System Configuration Utility. We use it to manage startup items and services. It helps troubleshoot boot problems.

Example: msconfig

cleanmgr

The cleanmgr command opens the Disk Cleanup utility. We use it to free up disk space by removing temporary files. It helps maintain the system health.

Example: cleanmgr

dxdiag

The dxdiag command opens the DirectX Diagnostic Tool. We use it to check video and sound card details. It helps gamers diagnose hardware issues.

Example: dxdiag

mmc

The mmc command opens an empty Microsoft Management Console. We use it to add snap-ins for managing the system. It is a hub for administrative tools.

Example: mmc

eventvwr

The eventvwr command opens the Event Viewer. We use it to see detailed logs about system errors and warnings. It is essential for debugging.

Example: eventvwr

resmon

The resmon command opens the Resource Monitor. We use it to see real-time usage of CPU, memory, disk, and network. It is a more detailed task manager.

Example: resmon

powershell

The powershell command opens a PowerShell session from CMD. We use it to access advanced scripting features. It connects the old prompt with the new tool.

Example: powershell

wsl

The wsl command allows users to run the Windows Subsystem for Linux. We use it to run Linux commands directly in Windows. It bridges the gap between operating systems.

Example: wsl

cipher

The cipher command displays or alters the encryption of directories and files on NTFS volumes. We use it to encrypt sensitive data. It enhances security.

Example: cipher /e secret_folder

openfiles

The openfiles command queries, displays, or disconnects open files. We use it to see who is accessing a shared file. It helps manage file locks.

Example: openfiles /query

Windows Commands for Help and Tips

Sometimes we need help with Windows Commands. These commands show us how to use other tools. They provide manuals and assistance directly in the terminal.

help

The help command provides a list of all available commands. We use it when we forget what to type. It shows every command we can use.

Example: help

robocopy

The robocopy command is a robust file copy tool included in Windows. We use it to copy large amounts of data reliably. It can retry copies if they fail.

Example: robocopy C:\Source D:\Dest /E

ftype

The ftype command displays or modifies file types used in file extension associations. We use it to change which program opens a file. It fixes file opening issues.

Example: ftype txtfile=%SystemRoot%\system32\NOTEPAD.EXE %1

assoc

The assoc command displays or modifies file extension associations. We use it to link a file extension like .txt to a file type. It helps the system understand files.

Example: assoc .txt=txtfile

doskey

The doskey command edits command lines, recalls Windows commands, and creates macros. We use it to save typing by creating aliases. It makes the command line smarter.

Example: doskey ls=dir

setver

The setver command sets the version number that MS-DOS reports to a program. We use it for very old legacy applications. It helps compatibility.

Example: setver

chcp

The chcp command displays or sets the active code page number. We use it to change the character set for the console. It fixes display issues with special characters.

Example: chcp 1252

A to Z List of All Windows Commands

If you were looking for specific Windows commands that we did not cover in detail above, you might find them here. We have gathered a huge list of remaining tools for you. Here are the rest of the commands from A to Z.

• ac – Used to display the connect time of users.
• addusers – Creates or updates user accounts from a file.
• agent – Schedules commands and programs to run.
• append – Allows programs to open data files in specified directories.
• arp – Displays and modifies the ARP cache.
• assign – Assigns a drive letter to a drive letter.
• at – Schedules commands and programs to run at a specific time.
• atmadm – Displays statistics for ATM connections.
• auditpol – Manages audit policies on the system.
• autochk – Used to check disks for errors during boot.
• autoconv – Automatically converts FAT volumes to NTFS.
• autofmt – Automatically formats a disk during setup.
• bcdboot – Creates or repairs the system boot files.
• bitsadmin – Manages the Background Intelligent Transfer Service.
• bootcfg – Modifies the boot.ini file for startup configuration.
• break – Sets or clears extended CTRL+C checking.
• cacls – Displays or modifies access control lists (ACLs) for files.
• call – Calls one batch program from another.
• cd – Displays the name of or changes the current directory.
• chcp – Displays or sets the active code page number.
• chdir – Changes the current directory.
• chkntfs – Displays or modifies disk checking at boot time.
• cipher – Displays or alters the encryption of directories.
• clip – Redirects command output to the Windows clipboard.
• cls – Clears the screen.
• cmd – Starts a new instance of the command interpreter.
• cmdkey – Creates, lists, and deletes stored user names and passwords.
• cmstp – Installs or removes Connection Manager service profiles.
• color – Sets the default console foreground and background colors.
• comp – Compares the contents of two files or sets of files.
• compact – Displays or alters the compression of files on NTFS partitions.
• convert – Converts FAT volumes to NTFS.
• copy – Copies one or more files to another location.
• cscript – Starts a script host for VBScript.
• csvde – Imports and exports data from Active Directory.
• date – Displays or sets the date.
• debug – Starts Debug, a program testing and editing tool.
• defrag – Locates and consolidates fragmented files on local volumes.
• del – Deletes one or more files.
• devcon – A command line device manager utility.
• device – Loads device drivers in MS-DOS compatibility mode.
• diantz – Creates cabinet files (.cab).
• dir – Displays a list of files and subdirectories in a directory.
• diskcomp – Compares the contents of two floppy disks.
• diskcopy – Copies the contents of one floppy disk to another.
• diskpart – Manages disks, partitions, or volumes.
• diskperf – Starts and stops the disk performance counters.
• diskraid – Used to manage RAID configurations.
• dispdiag – Displays diagnostics information about the system.
• doskey – Edits command lines, recalls commands, and creates macros.
• dosx – Provides access to the upper memory area.
• driverquery – Displays a list of all installed device drivers.
• dsacls – Displays or modifies permissions on Active Directory objects.
• dsadd – Adds specific types of objects to the directory.
• dsamain – Exposes Active Directory data for management.
• dsmod – Modifies attributes of an existing object.
• dsquery – Searches for objects in the directory.
• dsrm – Deletes an object of a specific type from the directory.
• echo – Displays messages or turns command echoing on or off.
• edit – Starts the MS-DOS text editor.
• endlocal – Ends localization of environment changes in a batch file.
• erase – Deletes one or more files.
• eventcreate – Enables an administrator to create a custom event.
• eventquery – Lists the events and properties from an event log.
• eventtriggers – Displays and configures event triggers.
• evntcmd – Configures event traps for SNMP.
• exe2bin – Converts EXE files to binary format.
• exit – Quits the command interpreter.
• expand – Uncompresses one or more compressed files.
• extract – Extracts files from cabinet files.
• fc – Compares two files and shows the differences.
• fdisk – Manages disk partitions on hard drives.
• find – Searches for a text string in a file or files.
• findstr – Searches for strings in files using regular expressions.
• finger – Displays information about a user on a specified system.
• flattemp – Enables or disables flat temporary folders.
• for – Runs a specified command for each file in a set of files.
• forcedos – Forces a file to run in MS-DOS subsystem.
• forfiles – Executes a command on a set of files.
• format – Formats a disk for use with Windows.
• fsutil – Performs tasks related to file system and NTFS.
• ftp – Transfers files to and from a computer running an FTP server.
• ftype – Displays or modifies file types used in file association.
• getmac – Displays the MAC address for network adapters.
• gettype – Displays the type of computer (e.g., headless, server).
• goto – Directs the command interpreter to a labeled line.
• gpfixup – Fixes domain name dependencies after a rename.
• gpresult – Displays Resultant Set of Policy information.
• gpupdate – Refreshes local and Active Directory-based policy settings.
• graftabl – Enables Windows to display an extended character set.
• graphics – Loads a program that can print graphics.
• help – Provides online information about Windows commands.
• helpctr – Starts the Help and Support Center.
• hostname – Displays the name of the current computer.
• ipconfig – Displays current TCP/IP network configuration.
• ipxroute – Manages IPX routing tables and protocols.
• irftp – Sends files over an infrared link.
• keyb – Configures a keyboard for a specific language.
• label – Creates, changes, or deletes the volume label of a disk.
• lodctr – Registers or saves performance counter names and settings.
• logman – Manages and schedules performance counter and event trace logs.
• logoff – Ends a session.
• logtime – Logs the time and date in a file.
• lpq – Displays the status of a print queue.
• lpr – Sends a file to a printer connected to a computer.
• macfile – Manages file server for Macintosh.
• makecab – Creates cabinet (.cab) files.
• mapadmin – Manages Terminal Services license mapping.
• md – Creates a directory.
• mem – Displays the amount of used and free memory.
• mkdir – Creates a directory.
• mklink – Creates a symbolic link or hard link.
• mode – Configures system devices like ports or printers.
• more – Displays output one screen at a time.
• mount – Mounts a Network File System (NFS) share.
• mountvol – Creates, deletes, or lists a volume mount point.
• move – Moves one or more files from one directory to another.
• mqsvc – Provides messaging services.
• mrinfo – Sends a query to a multicast router.
• mshta – Executes HTML Applications (HTA).
• msiexec – Starts the Windows Installer service.
• msinfo32 – Displays a comprehensive view of system hardware.
• nbtstat – Displays NetBIOS over TCP/IP statistics.
• net – Manages network resources and users.
• net1 – Executes net commands with extra functionality.
• netcfg – Installs the Windows Preinstallation Environment.
• netdom – Manages Windows domains and trust relationships.
• netsh – A network shell command-line scripting utility.
• netstat – Displays network statistics and connections.
• nfsadmin – Server for NFS administration utility.
• nfsshare – Controls Network File System (NFS) shares.
• nfsumount – Mounts or unmounts an NFS share.
• nlbmgr – Manages Network Load Balancing.
• nltest – Checks trust relationships and domain controller status.
• nslookup – Queries DNS for domain name or IP address mapping.
• ntbackup – Backs up files using the NT Backup utility.
• ntcmdprompt – Runs the command interpreter after a termination.
• ntfrsutl – Controls NT File Replication Service.
• ntsd – Loads the Windows debugger.
• openfiles – Displays or disconnects open files on a system.
• pagefileconfig – Configures virtual memory page file size.
• path – Displays or sets a search path for executable files.
• pathping – Traces a path to a destination and shows packet loss.
• pause – Suspends processing of a batch file.
• pbadmin – Manages the Phone Book Server.
• pcwrun – Runs a program in a virtual machine.
• pentnt – Detects floating point division errors.
• perfmon – Opens Performance Monitor.
• ping – Verifies connectivity to another TCP/IP computer.
• pnputil – Manages driver packages (PnP).
• popd – Changes the current directory to the one stored by pushd.
• powercfg – Manages power settings and configurations.
• print – Prints a text file.
• printercontrol – Controls printers on the network.
• prncnfg – Configures or displays a printer.
• prndrvr – Adds, deletes, or lists printer drivers.
• prnjobs – Pauses, resumes, cancels, or lists print jobs.
• prnmngr – Adds, deletes, or lists printers.
• prnport – Creates, deletes, or lists standard TCP/IP printer ports.
• prnqctl – Controls print queues.
• prompt – Changes the command prompt text.
• pushd – Saves the current directory and changes it.
• qappsrv – Displays available Terminal Servers.
• qwinsta – Displays information about Remote Desktop sessions.
• qprocess – Displays information about processes.
• query – Queries the status of processes or sessions.
• queryuser – Queries user sessions.
• rasdial – Interfaces with a Remote Access Service client.
• rcp – Copies files between a Windows and a UNIX host.
• rd – Removes a directory.
• recover – Recovers readable information from a bad disk.
• reg – Edits registry data.
• regini – Modifies registry permissions from a script.
• regsvr32 – Registers or unregisters DLLs.
• relog – Extracts performance counters from logs to other formats.
• rem – Records comments in a batch file.
• rename – Renames a file.
• replace – Replaces files.
• reset – Resets the session subsystem.
• rexec – Runs commands on remote hosts running the rexec service.
• risetup – Starts Remote Installation Services setup.
• rmdir – Removes a directory.
• robocopy – Advanced file copying utility.
• route – Manipulates network routing tables.
• rsh – Runs commands on remote hosts running the rsh service.
• rsm – Manages media resources using Removable Storage.
• runas – Allows a user to run specific tools with different permissions.
• rwinsta – Resets a session subsystem.
• sc – Manages Windows services.
• scanreg – Checks the registry for errors.
• scwcmd – Performs operations using the Security Configuration Wizard.
• secedit – Automates security configuration edits.
• serverceipoptin – Enables or disables the Customer Experience Improvement Program.
• servermanagercmd – Installs or removes server roles.
• set – Displays, sets, or removes environment variables.
• setlocal – Begins localization of environment changes.
• setx – Creates or modifies environment variables permanently.
• sfc – Scans and verifies protected system files.
• shadow – Allows monitoring of another Remote Desktop session.
• shift – Shifts the position of batch parameters.
• shutdown – Allows proper local or remote shutdown.
• sort – Sorts input.
• start – Starts a separate window to run a program.
• subst – Associates a path with a drive letter.
• sxstrace – Traces side-by-side (WinSxS) resolution.
• systeminfo – Displays detailed configuration information.
• takeown – Allows an administrator to take ownership of a file.
• taskkill – Terminates a process.
• tasklist – Displays running processes.
• tcmsetup – Sets up or removes the Telephony Application Programming Interface.
• telnet – Communicates with a remote computer using the Telnet protocol.
• tftp – Transfers files to and from a remote computer.
• time – Displays or sets the system time.
• timeout – Pauses the command processor for a specified number of seconds.
• title – Sets the window title for a command prompt session.
• tlntadmn – Administers a Telnet server.
• tpmvscmgr – Creates and manages TPM virtual smart cards.
• tracerpt – Creates trace reports from event trace logs.
• tracert – Traces the path to a destination.
• tree – Graphically displays the directory structure.
• tsdiscon – Disconnects a Remote Desktop session.
• tskill – Ends a process.
• type – Displays the contents of a text file.
• typeperf – Writes performance data to the command window or log.
• tzutil – Displays or sets the time zone.
• unlodctr – Removes performance counter names and registry info.
• ver – Displays the Windows version.
• verify – Tells Windows whether to verify that files are written correctly.
• vol – Displays the disk volume label and serial number.
• vssadmin – Manages Volume Shadow Copies.
• w32tm – Registers time service settings.
• waitfor – Waits for or sends a signal.
• wbadmin – Manages backup schedules and recovery.
• wecutil – Manages event forwarding and subscriptions.
• wevtutil – Manages event logs and publishers.
• where – Locates files that match a search pattern.
• whoami – Displays the current user name and domain.
• winmsd – Displays system information diagnostics.
• winnt – Installs Windows using a command line script.
• winnt32 – Installs Windows using a command line script (32-bit).
• winpop – Checks for mail on a POP3 server.
• winsat – Assesses the performance of the system.
• wmic – Displays WMI information inside interactive command shell.
• wscript – Hosts the Windows Script Host engine.
• xcopy – Copies files and directory trees.

Conclusion

So that’s it for this Windows Commands guide. I hope this article helped you understand the most commonly used Windows CMD commands.

One important thing to remember is that Windows Commands can directly affect your system. So, don’t run any command unless you understand what it does. If you’re unsure, take a moment to read the explanation, test it carefully, or try it on a non-important folder first.

If you want to learn more or go deeper into advanced commands, Microsoft’s official Windows command-line documentation is always a good reference.

Even then, if you ever feel confused about a command, you can try our Free AI Code Explainer. Just paste any Windows command into it, and it will explain what the command does in seconds.