How to Open the Command Prompt in Windows

This updated guide examines How to Open the Command Prompt in Windows and organizes the essential facts, background, and practical takeaways in clear American English.

Method 1of 3:

Searching for Command Prompt

1. Open Start. Click the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner of the screen, or press the⊞Winkey. You can search for Command Prompt on all supported versions of Windows.
   • If you're using Windows 8, instead place your mouse cursor in the top-right corner of the screen, then click the magnifying glass icon when it appears.
2. Typecommand promptinto Start. The Start search bar is at the bottom of the Start window. Searching for Command Prompt here will look for Command Prompt.
3. ClickCommand Prompt. You should see the Command Prompt icon appear near the top of the Start window. Clicking its icon will open Command Prompt.

Method 2of 3:

Using the Run Program

1. Open the Run program. Hold the⊞Winkey and press theRkey to open the Run window.
   • You can also right-click the Start icon (or press⊞Win+X) and then click Run to do this.
2. Typecmdinto Run. This is the command to open Command Prompt.
3. ClickOK. Doing so runs the "cmd.exe" command, which opens Command Prompt.

Method 3of 3:

Navigating to Command Prompt

1. Open Start. Click the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner of the screen. You can also press the⊞Winkey.
2. Scroll down toWindows Systemand click it. This folder will be near the bottom of the Start window.
3. ClickCommand Prompt. It should be near the top of the Windows System folder. Doing so will open Command Prompt.