13 DOS commands you NEVER knew you NEEDED!

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore 13 essential DOS commands that every Windows user should know. These commands can enhance your productivity, streamline tasks, and help you manage your system more effectively. Understanding these commands will also give you greater control over your Windows environment, whether you're troubleshooting issues or performing routine maintenance.

Step 1: Understanding Microsoft DOS

• Microsoft DOS (Disk Operating System) is a command-line interface used to interact with the computer's operating system.
• It allows users to execute commands directly rather than navigating through a graphical user interface (GUI).
• Familiarity with DOS commands can be particularly beneficial for system diagnostics and file management.

Step 2: Accessing the Command Prompt

• To begin using DOS commands, you need to access the Command Prompt:
  • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  • Type cmd and hit Enter.
  • The Command Prompt window will open, ready for your commands.

Step 3: List of Essential DOS Commands

Here are the 13 DOS commands discussed in the video:

1. dir

   • Displays a list of files and folders in the current directory.
   • Usage: dir

2. cd

   • Changes the current directory.
   • Usage: cd [directory_name]
   • Tip: Use cd .. to move to the parent directory.

3. copy

   • Copies files from one location to another.
   • Usage: copy [source] [destination]
   • Example: copy file.txt D:\Backup

4. del

   • Deletes one or more files.
   • Usage: del [file_name]
   • Caution: This action cannot be undone.

5. mkdir

   • Creates a new directory.
   • Usage: mkdir [directory_name]
   • Example: mkdir NewFolder

6. rmdir

   • Removes a directory.
   • Usage: rmdir [directory_name]
   • Note: The directory must be empty to be deleted.

7. move

   • Moves files from one location to another.
   • Usage: move [source] [destination]
   • Example: move file.txt D:\Documents

8. ipconfig

   • Displays network configuration information.
   • Usage: ipconfig
   • Tip: Use ipconfig /all for detailed info.

9. ping

   • Tests the reachability of a network host.
   • Usage: ping [hostname or IP address]
   • Example: ping google.com

10. chkdsk

    • Checks the disk for errors and repairs them.
    • Usage: chkdsk [drive_letter]:
    • Example: chkdsk C:

11. tasklist

    • Lists all currently running processes.
    • Usage: tasklist

12. taskkill

    • Terminates a running process.
    • Usage: taskkill /IM [process_name]
    • Example: taskkill /IM notepad.exe

13. exit

    • Closes the Command Prompt window.
    • Usage: exit

Step 4: Practical Tips

• Always double-check commands, especially those that modify or delete files.
• Use /? after any command to get help on its usage. For example, copy /?.
• Familiarize yourself with these commands in a safe environment to gain confidence.

Conclusion

By mastering these 13 DOS commands, you can significantly improve your efficiency when using Windows. They enable you to perform tasks that might otherwise take longer through a GUI. To further enhance your skills, practice these commands regularly and explore additional resources to deepen your understanding of DOS and command-line interfaces.