The Chcp Command in Windows: Tips and Examples

The Chcp Command in Windows is easier to understand when the core ideas are paired with practical examples. The sections below explain the topic clearly, highlight useful steps, and point out details that can prevent common errors.

The chcp command changes the active code page console. If used without parameters, the chcp command will show the number of active page code of the control panel.

For an example of how to use this command, please see the Example below.

Chcp command syntax

 chcp []

Parameters

ParametersDescription Specifies the code page. /? Show help at the command prompt.

The following table lists each supported code page and its country / region or language:

Code page Country / region or language 437 United States 850 Multilingual (Latin I) 852 Slavic (Latin II) 855 Cyrillic (Russian) 857 Turkish 860 Portuguese 861 Iceland 863 Canadian-French 865 Northern European 866 Russia 869 Greece 936 China

Note

Only the original device manufacturer's (OEM) code page installed with Windows will appear correctly in the Command Prompt window using Raster fonts. Other code pages appear correctly in full screen mode or in the Command Prompt window using TrueType fonts.
You do not need to prepare code pages (as in MS-DOS).
Programs that you start after you specify a new code page will use the new code page. However, the programs (except Cmd.exe) that you start before you specify the new code page use the original code page.

As an example,

Change command in Windows
Cd command in Windows
The cacls command in Windows

FAQ

What is The Chcp Command in Windows?

The chcp command changes the active code page console.

Why is The Chcp Command in Windows important?

A clear understanding of The Chcp Command in Windows helps you make informed decisions, avoid common mistakes, and use the relevant tools or techniques more effectively.

How should beginners approach The Chcp Command in Windows?

Start with the fundamental concepts, follow the examples step by step, and test each change in a safe environment before applying it to important systems or data.