Command line tip #1 - Accessing the command prompt

Posted by Vic Laurie
October 13, 2007

Because I think there are a number of simple but very handy ways to use the command line or prompt in Windows, I am going to begin posting some tips that I think almost any home PC owner can use. But first we have to show how to open a command prompt. One way is to use the Start-Run feature. Enter “cmd” without quotes and the command prompt will open.

Personally, I prefer to have the accessory available right on the Start menu. Open Start-All Programs-Accessories and right-click the entry “Command Prompt”. Select “Pin to Start menu” from the context menu. Or go to \WINDOWS\system32 and right-click the command shell file cmd.exe and select “Pin to Start menu” from the context menu.

Command-line, Computer management

Did you enjoy this post? Why not leave a comment below and continue the conversation, or subscribe to my feed and get articles like this delivered automatically to your feed reader.

Comments

I am using Windows XP SP2 and “Pin to Start Menu” does not appear as an option when I follow your instructions - Start>>Programs>>Accessories>>right click Command Prompt.

Similarly, going the Systems32 route does not reveal a “Pin” option on the context menu.

Comment by colion on October 14, 2007 @ 8:24 am

“Pin to Start Menu” is a standard option. It must have been disabled on your computer somehow. Are you at home or at work? If you are not the administrator, talk to whoever is. If you are the the administrator, you can download a Registry fix from http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm You’ll find it at line 160, right column, the name is ” Enable pin to start menu-right click”

Comment by Vic on October 14, 2007 @ 10:55 am

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.