In Windows Vista, the command prompt is the place where you can execute command-line instructions. Most of the commands are the old standard MS-DOS commands, some are enhancements of the MS-DOS commands, and others are commands unique to Windows Vista. When you want or need to work from the command prompt, you can open a command-prompt window and execute all your tasks there, including using the basic commands, starting a program, and even starting a program in a new window. Note that the command prompt is a powerful weapon that can disrupt your system, delete files, and create general havoc. Don’t execute commands unless you know what they’re designed for.
Command | Function |
---|---|
cd | Switches to the specified folder (or directory). |
cls | Clears the screen. |
copy | Copies the specified files or folders. |
dir | Shows the contents of the current directory. |
exit | Ends the session. |
ipconfig | Displays network connection information. |
ping | Tests network connection using IP address. |
path | Displays or sets the path the command searches. |
prompt | Changes the information displayed at the prompt. |
rename | Renames the specified file or files if the wildcard characters ? or * are used. |
Many commands have switches that allow the use of extra parameters, giving you much greater control of the command. A switch is the part of the command with the forward slash (/), followed by a letter, a number, or some other instruction. A parameter is an additional instruction you provide, such as the file name or drive letter.
At the command prompt, type help > dosref.txt and press Enter. Use Notepad or WordPad to open the file dosref.txt that’s stored on your hard disk (it’s the folder that was active when you typed the command). The > symbol redirected the output from the screen to the file. You now have a reference for the commands, which you can easily print out.