Five Simple Run Commands Every Windows User Should Know
You might be thinking, “Why bother with Run commands when the Start Menu, the Control Panel, and the Settings app offer access to almost every setting?” The key here is efficiency. Run commands offer users a faster and more direct route to a wide range of Windows settings, tools, and features.
Think about it: instead of navigating through layers of menus, you just type a quick command and poof! You’re right where you need to be. Bringing up the Run dialog is a breeze too – just hit the Windows key + R on your keyboard, type your command, and press Enter. It’s all about getting things done quicker.
Here are five examples of run commands that will save you time.
1. First, let’s do dots!
Did you know that dots (periods) do neat tricks in the Run dialog? Enter a single dot (.), press Enter, and you’re instantly in your current user’s home directory. Enter two dots (…), press Enter, and you’re instantly in your Users directory. These shortcuts will get you to those user-specific files and folders in a flash.
2. Let’s get your system’s specs with msinfo32
Curious about your system’s specs? Just type msinfo32 in the Run dialog box and press Enter, and you’ll see everything from your processor type to the amount of RAM installed. You can access detailed system summaries, including hardware resources, software environments, and components.
This information can be invaluable when you’re troubleshooting, upgrading your hardware, or generating a report for technical support. You can even use it to check your BIOS version or verify your system’s specifications.
3. Get a list of all installed programs with appwiz.cpl
Need a fast way to see all your installed apps? Look no further than the appwiz.cpl command! Just type it into the Run dialog, and the Programs and Features window pops open. You’ll see a complete roster of every application installed on your PC. From there, it’s a breeze to uninstall unwanted programs, tweak existing installations, or even repair those that are acting a little wonky – all with a few simple clicks. So, next time you need to manage your software, remember appwiz.cpl for quick access to a list of all programs installed on your computer.
4. Adjust your mouse settings with main.cpl
Want to set up your mouse settings just the way you like them? Simply type main.cpl into the Run dialog! Hit Enter, and the Mouse Properties window will appear, putting you in control of everything from pointer speed and sensitivity to button configurations. You can even tweak double-click behavior, scroll wheel settings, and more. Think of main.cpl as a direct line to your mouse settings.
5. Customize your display with desk.cpl
Want to modify your display? Just type desk.cpl in the Run dialog and press Enter. Whether you’re looking to adjust your screen resolution or orientation, or even manage multiple monitors, this command puts all the essential display settings right at your fingertips. Plus, you can fine-tune things like screen brightness, refresh rate, and the size of apps and text to get everything looking just right. So go ahead, hit Windows+R, type desk.cpl, and start making your display just like you want it.
Oh yes, there are many more commands you can learn to make your computer life easier; let’s hope these five make you eager to learn more!