The Command Prompt is one of Windows’ incredible utility that allows users to run numerous commands and troubleshoot various errors. It’s commonly referred to as a ‘CMD’ tool in the Microsoft user community. One can perform advanced administrative functions using the text-based user interface. In today’s article, we’ll look at the step-by-step process of changing directories in CMD Prompt (CMD).
CMD provides computers with direct access to change directories. And the one command that will help you do it is ‘cd’ (without semicolons). The professional command allows you to open and change different directories or folders on your hard drive!
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What is the “cd” command in Microsoft Windows?
The “cd” command stands for ‘change directory.’ It lets you change the current working directory of your Operating System. It can be used in shell scripts and batch files!
In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step instructions on how to change directories in Windows 10’s Command Prompt utility and what to do if you can’t move directories.
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How to Change Directories in Command Prompt Using the cd command?
The CMD tool will allow you to change directories without navigating multiple windows screens. Instead, a single ‘cd’ command would do the task. Just follow the step-by-step instructions stated below:
Step 1: Open Windows CMD Utility
The first step is to open the Command Prompt utility on your computer. There are two different ways to do it, both easy but different.
The first way to open a command prompt on your computer is by pressing the Windows button. It will open the Search bar. Once it appears, type CMD in the search box, right-click on the same and select the option Run it as an administrator.
Another way to open Command Prompt Utility is by pressing Windows + R shortcut keys. It will open the Run dialogue box. Once it appears, type CMD and hit the Enter button!
Step 2: Run the CD Command to Change Directories in Command Prompt
After opening the Command Prompt window, write ‘cd’ followed by a space. If you wish to browse to a specific directory, use the command “cd + complete directory path,” for example, cd C:\Program Files.
The CMD utility also offers the convenience of drag and drop functionality. So, you could just drag the specific directory you want to change and drop it to the CMD window.
Step 3: Change the Drive before Changing the Directories on CMD Prompt
If you want to move one particular folder from one drive to another, you will have to change the drive before changing the directory.
Suppose you wish to move a folder named ‘Change Directory’ from your C drive to your D drive; you need to change the drive to D first before changing the directory. You may accomplish this by entering D followed by a colon like this – – (D:).
Simply use the cd command followed by the /d switch to change the drive and directory simultaneously. The /d option changes the current drive to a particular folder on another storage volume. For example, if you are currently on the D: disc and wish to return to the Windows folder from the C: drive, type: cd /d C:\Windows
Must-Read: How to Edit Windows Registry Via Command Prompt
Wrapping Up Our Guide On How To Change Directories In Command Prompt!
Using Command Prompt is one of the fastest ways to change the directories. It is quick, hassle-free, and saves a lot of effort from clicking and scrolling through tabs. Although it’s an easy process, there are still a few things to remember to ensure that changing directories gets easier in the future. Always check if you are typing the right commands and that the directory exists. When finding directories, ensure that you are browsing the correct hard drive. And last, ensure that you have admin permission.
FAQs | Know More About How To Change Directories In Command Prompt (2023)
Q1. How do I change the directory in CMD?
Changing the directory in cmd is way simpler than you would think. Open the cmd, type in ‘cd’ followed by the directory you intend to move into, and then hit enter. It is as simple as that.
Q2. How do I change the C directory to D in CMD?
If you wish to move the folder to another drive, you must first change the drive before changing the directory. To do so, enter the drive’s name followed by a colon. Say you wish to transfer a folder from your C drive to your D drive; you must enter ‘D:.’
Q3. How do I go to a specific folder in the command prompt?
Suppose you want to go to a specific folder, type cd followed by the name of the folder you want to find in the command prompt window. You will, however, need to know the name of the directory.
Q4. How do you view the contents of a directory?
CMD allows you to view the content and folders of any drive. You can view the content by typing ‘dir’ in cmd and hitting enter. For instance, if you want to view the content and directories of D drive, you type dir and press enter. It will display a list of files and folders, as well as some information about each of them.
Hopefully, you found this guide useful for changing directories in the CMD prompt on Windows 10. Do you know any other method to get the task done? If yes, feel free to mention them in the comments section below!
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