22 Basic CMD Commands Every Windows 11 User Should Know

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Discover the essential CMD commands every Windows 11 user should know. Also, learn how to use Command Prompt like a techie in Windows.

Have you ever wondered about the black screen with white text called Command Prompt (CMD) on your computer? It’s like the secret toolbox of Windows 11. While most people stick to clicking buttons, CMD lets you control your computer with simple text commands.

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What is the Command Prompt and Its Importance

The Command Prompt, commonly referred to as CMD, is a command-line interpreter built into Windows. It allows users to execute commands directly, bypassing the graphical interface. CMD is particularly useful for troubleshooting, managing files, and automating tasks.

Why CMD Still Matters in Todays Day

Why should you learn CMD? For starters, it gives you access to features and tools that aren’t always available in the standard interface. Whether you want to navigate your file system faster or troubleshoot network issues, CMD is your go-to tool.

How to Open CMD

Before we start, you need to open CMD. Here’s how:

1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard.
2. Type cmd and press Enter.

You’re ready to explore!

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List of Basic CMD Commands Every Windows 11 User Should Know

Basic Commands to Navigate and Manage Files

These commands are perfect for beginners and will help you move around and organize your files.

1. See What’s Inside a Folder: DIR

This command shows all files and folders in your current location.
Example:

DIR

You’ll see a list of everything in the folder.

2. Change the Folder: CD

Want to switch to another folder? Use the CD command.
Example:

CD Documents

To go back to the previous folder:

CD..

3. Copy Files: COPY

Copy a file from one place to another.
Example:

COPY notes.txt D:\Backup

4. Delete Files: DEL

Remove files you no longer need.
Example:

DEL oldfile.txt

5. Move Files: MOVE

Shift a file to a different location.
Example:

MOVE file.txt D:\NewFolder

These commands make managing files faster and easier.

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Find Information About Your Computer

CMD can tell you a lot about your system. Here are some helpful commands:

6. Check Your Network: IPCONFIG

This command shows your IP address and other network details.
Example:

IPCONFIG

7. Get System Details: SYSTEMINFO

Learn about your Windows version, computer name, and more.
Example:

SYSTEMINFO

8. See Network Connections: NETSTAT

Find out what’s connected to your computer.
Example:

NETSTAT

9. Who Are You? WHOAMI

Quickly check which account you’re using.
Example:

WHOAMI

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Fix Common Computer Issues

When something isn’t working, CMD can help fix it.

10. Test Your Internet: PING

Check if your computer can reach a website.
Example:

PING google.com

11. Find Connection Problems: TRACERT

See the path your internet takes to reach a website.
Example:

TRACERT google.com

12. Fix Disk Errors: CHKDSK

Scan your hard drive for problems.
Example:

CHKDSK C: /F

13. Repair System Files: SFC

This command fixes broken system files.
Example:

SFC /SCANNOW  

These tools are like a first-aid kit for your computer.

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Save Time with Productivity Commands

CMD can automate tasks and make your work easier.

14. Run Scripts Automatically

If you have a .bat file, CMD can run it.
Example:

Copy codebackup.bat

15. Schedule Tasks

Use CMD to set up tasks that run on their own.
Example:

SCHTASKS /Create /SC DAILY /TN "Backup" /TR "backup.bat" /ST 12:00

16. Save Output to a File

Want to save the result of a command?
Example:

DIR > filelist.txt

This creates a text file with the list of files.

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Stay Secure with CMD

Use CMD to manage users and protect your files.

17. Add a New User: NET USER

Create a new account.
Example:

NET USER newuser /ADD

18. Set File Permissions: CACLS

Control who can access a file.
Example:

CACLS file.txt /E /G username:F

19. Turn Off Firewall: NETSH

Disable the Windows Firewall temporarily.
Example:

NETSH ADVFIREWALL SET ALLPROFILES STATE OFF  

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Advanced Tricks for CMD Users

Once you’re comfortable, try these cool tricks:

20. Use Wildcards

Delete or list similar files quickly.
Example:

DEL *.txt

This deletes all text files in a folder.

21. Combine Commands

Run multiple commands in one line.
Example:

DIR | FIND "file"

22. Save Results to Files

Keep a record of what CMD shows you.
Example:

IPCONFIG > networkinfo.txt

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FAQs: Common Questions About CMD Commands in Windows 11

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about CMD commands and their uses in Windows 11:

1. How Do I Open Command Prompt as an Administrator?

To access advanced features, you may need to run CMD as an administrator. Right-click the Start button, select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or “Windows Terminal (Admin)”, and you’re set.

2. What Is the Difference Between CMD and PowerShell?

CMD is a basic command-line tool, while PowerShell is more advanced, offering scripting capabilities and a wider range of commands. For basic tasks, CMD works perfectly fine.

3. Can I Undo a Command in CMD?

CMD doesn’t have an undo option. Be cautious with commands like DEL or FORMAT as they can delete files or data permanently.

4. Is CMD Safe to Use?

Yes, CMD is safe if you use it correctly. Avoid experimenting with unknown or destructive commands like FORMAT unless you fully understand their effects.

5. Why Does CMD Show ‘Access Denied’ for Some Commands?

This usually happens when a command needs administrator privileges. Run CMD as an administrator to resolve this issue.

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Conclusion: CMD Is Your Hidden Superpower

Learning CMD commands might feel intimidating at first, but it’s simpler than it seems. With just a few commands, you can manage files, fix issues, and understand your system better. For those looking to take their skills further, exploring advanced PowerShell commands can unlock even greater control and automation capabilities within Windows.

So, why not give it a try? Open CMD today and explore these commands. You’ll be surprised how much easier your computing life becomes!

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