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Command prompt: complete and practical guide

Learn what the Command Prompt is, how to open and use it, and how to solve Windows problems quickly and safely.

fix system problems

31 December 2025

Table of contents

  • What is the command prompt
  • How to open the command prompt
  • How to use the command prompt
  • Useful Windows commands
  • Command prompt as a troubleshooting tool
  • Command prompt vs PowerShell
  • Safety tips

Many Windows users have heard of the Command Prompt, but not everyone really knows what it is or how to open the Command Prompt properly. This tool, often associated with IT professionals and technicians, is actually a valuable ally even for those who simply want to fix system problems, check IP addresses, or perform tasks that aren’t always available through the graphical interface.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to open the Command Prompt, including as an administrator, and how to use the main Windows commands to manage your computer faster and more efficiently.

What is the command prompt

The Command Prompt is a built-in Windows program that allows users to interact directly with the operating system by typing text-based instructions called “commands.”

Unlike the graphical interface, where you use windows and buttons, the prompt operates through a command window in which you type a command and press Enter to execute it.

It’s an essential component of all Windows versions, from Windows XP to Windows 11, and represents the evolution of the old DOS (Disk Operating System).

In practice, the prompt can be used to perform advanced operations such as editing files, managing network connections, diagnosing issues, and controlling system processes and configurations.

How to open the command prompt

One of the first things to learn is how to open the Command Prompt. There are several ways to do it, and each method can be more or less convenient depending on your needs.

1. From the start menu

The simplest method is to open it from the Start menu:

  • Click the Start icon in the lower-left corner of the screen.
  • In the search bar, type “Command Prompt” or “cmd.”
  • Click the “Command Prompt” app that appears in the results.
  • The command window will open, ready to receive instructions.

2. Using keyboard shortcuts

Another quick way to launch the Command Prompt is:

  • Press Win + R to open the “Run” dialog box.
  • Type cmd and press Enter.

This will instantly open the prompt in the current user’s directory.

3. As administrator

Many operations require elevated privileges, meaning the Command Prompt must be run as an administrator.
To open the Command Prompt as administrator:

  • Type “cmd” in the Windows search bar.
  • Right-click “Command Prompt.”
  • Select “Run as administrator.”
  • Confirm the User Account Control (UAC) prompt by clicking “Yes.”

The window title will display “Administrator: Command Prompt,” indicating that you’re running with full system privileges.

How to use the command prompt

Once open, it’s important to understand how to use the Command Prompt.
The command window usually displays something like:

C:\Users\UserName>

This is the current path where commands will be executed.

To use the prompt, simply type a command and press Enter. For example:

ipconfig

This command shows the IP addresses assigned to your computer and other network details.

Useful Windows commands

Here are some of the most commonly used Windows commands:

  • dir – Lists files and folders in the current directory.
  • cd – Changes the directory (e.g., cd Documents).
  • ipconfig – Displays network and connection information.
  • ping [address] – Checks network connectivity to a server or website (e.g., ping google.com).
  • sfc /scannow – Scans and repairs corrupted system files.
  • chkdsk – Checks and fixes hard drive errors.
  • tasklist – Displays active processes.
  • exit – Closes the Command Prompt window.

Many of these commands are useful for troubleshooting network, startup, or system problems, especially when the graphical interface becomes unresponsive.

Command prompt as a troubleshooting tool

The Command Prompt is not just a text-based interface it’s a powerful diagnostic and repair tool.
With a few simple commands, you can check network status, fix file system errors, or resolve Windows startup problems.

For example:

If your Internet connection isn’t working, type:
ping 8.8.8.8

To verify if your PC can reach the network.

To repair corrupted system files:

sfc /scannow
  • To clear the DNS cache:
ipconfig /flushdns

These commands are essential for problem resolution and are widely used by IT technicians to diagnose issues without opening external programs.

Command prompt vs PowerShell

Many users notice that in newer versions of Windows, PowerShell sometimes appears instead of the traditional Command Prompt.

PowerShell is a more modern evolution of the prompt, but both coexist and serve similar purposes.

The Command Prompt remains crucial for compatibility with older Windows scripts and commands, while PowerShell offers more advanced functionality and automation.
To return to the classic prompt, simply search for “cmd” as shown earlier.

Safety tips

Although powerful, the prompt should be used with caution. Some commands, especially when run with administrator privileges, can change system settings or permanently delete files.

Here are some basic safety rules:

  • Read carefully before pressing Enter.
  • Avoid commands you don’t understand or those found on unreliable forums.
  • Always create a backup copy of important data.
  • Use the prompt as administrator only when absolutely necessary.

Practical example: checking network connectivity

Suppose your computer can’t connect to the Internet.
You can troubleshoot the issue step by step using the Command Prompt:

  • Open the Command Prompt as administrator.
  • Type ipconfig and press Enter.
    – Check if your computer has a valid IP address.

If no connection appears, type:

ipconfig /release

ipconfig /renew
  • to force a new IP address assignment.

If the issue persists, type:

ipconfig /flushdns
  • to clear the DNS cache.

Finally, test the connection with:

ping google.com
  • If you receive replies, the issue is resolved.

In summary

The Command Prompt is a fundamental Windows tool that allows you to manage your system directly, fix errors, and optimize your PC’s performance.

Knowing how to open the Command Prompt, run it as administrator, and use the main Windows commands means you always have a backup plan even when the graphical interface fails.
Using it correctly gives you full control of your computer.

Questions and answers

  1. What is the Command Prompt?
    It’s a Windows program that executes text-based instructions to manage and configure the system.
  2. How do I open the Command Prompt?
    Click Start, type “cmd” in the search bar, and press Enter.
  3. Can I open the Command Prompt as administrator?
    Yes. Right-click “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator.”
  4. What is the Command Prompt used for?
    It’s used to manage the operating system, execute commands, verify connections, and troubleshoot problems.
  5. What’s the difference between Command Prompt and PowerShell?
    PowerShell is newer and more powerful, while the Command Prompt is simpler and compatible with older commands.
  6. Where is the Command Prompt located?
    It’s available in all Windows versions, accessible via the Start menu or the Run dialog box.
  7. What commands can I use in the prompt?
    You can use commands like ipconfig, ping, dir, cd, sfc /scannow, chkdsk, and many others.
  8. What does “press Enter” mean in the prompt?
    It means confirming and executing the command you typed in the command window.
  9. Can I fix network issues using the prompt?
    Yes. Commands like ipconfig /flushdns or ping help diagnose and resolve connection problems.
  10. Is it dangerous to use the Command Prompt?
    No, not if used correctly. Just avoid running unknown commands or those requiring elevated privileges unnecessarily.
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