Windows Command Line Tutorial - 1 - Introduction to the Command Prompt

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the basics of using the Windows Command Prompt, also known as the Command Line. Understanding the Command Prompt is essential for performing various tasks efficiently on your Windows computer, such as file management, system configuration, and troubleshooting.

Step 1: Accessing the Command Prompt

To start using the Command Prompt, you need to access it first. Here’s how:

1. Open the Start Menu:

   • Click on the Windows icon in the bottom left corner of your screen.

2. Search for Command Prompt:

   • Type “cmd” or “Command Prompt” into the search bar.

3. Open the Application:

   • Click on the Command Prompt option that appears in the search results.

Step 2: Understanding the Command Prompt Interface

When you open the Command Prompt, you’ll see a black window with white text. Here are the key elements:

• Title Bar: Displays the name of the window.
• Prompt: Indicates that the Command Prompt is ready to accept commands (usually shows the current directory).
• Cursor: Blinking line indicating where your input will appear.

Step 3: Basic Commands

Familiarize yourself with some fundamental commands that you will frequently use:

1. dir: Lists all files and folders in the current directory.

   • Usage: Just type dir and press Enter.

2. cd: Changes the current directory.

   • Example: To change to a folder named "Documents", type cd Documents and press Enter.

3. mkdir: Creates a new directory.

   • Example: To create a folder named "NewFolder", type mkdir NewFolder and press Enter.

4. rmdir: Deletes a directory.

   • Example: To remove a folder named "OldFolder", type rmdir OldFolder and press Enter.

5. exit: Closes the Command Prompt window.

   • Simply type exit and hit Enter.

Step 4: Navigating Directories

Learning how to navigate through directories is crucial for efficient file management. Here are some tips:

• To move up one directory level, use:

  cd ..
  

• To view the current directory path, use:

  cd
  

• To navigate directly to a specific path, type the full path:

  cd C:\Users\YourUsername\Documents
  

Step 5: Running Programs

You can also run executable programs directly from the Command Prompt. Here’s how:

1. Navigate to the directory containing the executable (if necessary).
2. Type the name of the executable file and press Enter.
   • Example: To run a program called "example.exe", type:

   example.exe
   

Conclusion

You've now learned how to access the Command Prompt, understand its interface, and use basic commands to navigate and manage files. This foundational knowledge will serve you well as you delve deeper into the capabilities of the Command Line.

Next Steps

• Consider exploring more advanced commands and scripting with batch files.
• Practice using the Command Prompt regularly to become proficient.
• Check out additional resources or tutorials for more complex tasks and functionalities.