This post shows students and new users steps to open and use the Command Prompt in Windows 11.
In Windows, the Command Prompt allows users to perform tasks or run commands on their computer without using Windows GUI or the graphical user interface.
The Command Prompt is a useful command-line interface app that executes commands in Windows. However, it is not an app that new users use regularly. Instead, it is a handy tool mainly used by advanced users and those who know how it works.
Windows 11 also has a command-line interface app called Windows Terminal. Windows Terminal is the default console for opening installed shells like Command Prompt and PowerShell.
Below are some steps that one can use to open and use the Command Prompt in Windows 11.
How to open and use the command prompt in Windows 11
As mentioned, the Command Prompt allows users to perform tasks or run commands on their computer without using Windows GUI or the graphical user interface.
What steps show you how to open the command prompt in Windows 11?
Open Command Prompt in Windows Terminal
Windows Terminal default in PowerShell. However, you can also open the Command Prompt via the Windows Terminal app.
Read the post below to open the Command Prompt via Windows Terminal.
How to open Command Prompt in Windows Terminal
Open the Command Prompt from Windows Search
Windows Search allows you to search for apps and settings. It can also be used to open the Command Prompt in Windows 11.
Open Windows Search or press the keyboard short Windows key + S.
Then, type cmd into the Windows Search box. Under Best match, select the Command Prompt app to open.
Open Command Prompt from Run box
Windows Run command box can open an application or document whose path is known directly. Command variables can also be entered in the box to execute those commands quickly.
To open the Command Prompt via the Run command, search for the Run apps or press the keyboard shortcut: Windows key + R.
Next, type the cmd in the Run box and press Enter or OK to open the Command Prompt.
Open Command Prompt from File Explorer
Another way one can open the Command Prompt is via File Explorer. All programs have their executable in File Explorer. If you know where the executable lives, you can browse it and launch the app.
First, open File Explorer or use the keyboard shortcuts: Windows key + E. Next, navigate to and open the C:\Windows\System32 folder.
Locate and double-click the cmd.exe executable to open the Command Prompt.
Open Command Prompt using Power User Menu
One more method in Windows 11 is through the Power User Menu. First, press the keyboard short: Windows key + X or right-click on the Start menu to launch the Power User Menu.
Then, choose Windows Terminal from the menu that appears.
Open the Command Prompt as administrator
As you can see above, multiple ways exist to open the Command Prompt. If you want to open the Command Prompt app as an administrator, the post below should be helpful.
How to open and run apps as an administrator in Windows 11
There might be other ways to open the Command Prompt in Windows and Windows 11. If you know other methods, please add them to our command form below.
Conclusion
In summary, the Command Prompt in Windows 11 provides powerful functionalities for users to manage their systems effectively. Here are the key points to remember:
- Versatile Interface: The Command Prompt allows you to execute commands without relying on the graphical user interface.
- Multiple Access Methods: You can open the Command Prompt using Windows Search, Run box, File Explorer, and the Power User Menu.
- Administrator Access: There are options to run the Command Prompt as an administrator for elevated permissions.
- Useful for Advanced Users: While casual users may not use it frequently, it is a valuable tool for advanced users and IT professionals.
- Learn and Explore: Familiarizing yourself with the Command Prompt can enhance your computer skills and efficiency.
Feel free to explore additional methods to access the Command Prompt and share them to build a comprehensive resource for all users.
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