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How to Launch Command Prompt on Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP

It’s really handy to launch the Command Prompt to deal with specific computer issues. For example, you could open the Command Prompt to enter Safe Mode. Here are the straightforward steps to launch the Command Prompt in Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista or Windows XP.

What Is Command Prompt

Command Prompt, known as cmd.exe, is an executable program used to execute all kinds of commands on various versions of Microsoft Windows system.

Launch Command Prompt in Windows 10

Step 1. Click the Start button and then click All apps on the bottom left of the screen.

Step 2. Locate the Windows System folder and click on it.

Step 3. Under the Windows System folder, click Command Prompt.

Note: You could also press Windows + R altogether to open the Run dialog, enter cmd, and then click OK to run the Command Prompt in Windows 10.

Launch Command Prompt in Windows 8.1/8

Step 1. Click on the down arrow icon at the bottom to access the Apps screen.

Step 2. Scroll to the right and find the Windows System section heading.

Step 3. Click Command Prompt under Windows System.

Launch Command Prompt in Windows 7/Vista/XP

Step 1. Click the Start button in Windows 7 or Vista (click Start in XP).

Step 2. Click All programs and then click Accessories.

Step 3. Select Command Prompt.

Create a Desktop Command Prompt Shortcut

If there are several commands that you need to run from time to time, you could try to create a desktop Command Prompt shortcut. Follow these steps:

Step 1. Right-click on an empty area of your desktop.

Step 2. Select New.

Step 3. Select Shortcut.

Step 4. Type in C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe /k [your desired command here]

Note: Don’t actually type the brackets.

Step 5. Click Next.

Step 6. Accept the shortcut name or rename as you like.

Step 7.Click Finish.

If you know other ways to easily launch the Command Prompt, please share with us in the comment section below.