15 Essential CMD Commands Every Computer User Should Know

 1.dir 

    The dir command displays a list of files and directories in the current folder (directory).

It’s like opening a folder in File Explorer, but through the Command Prompt.

You can use it to view contents, file sizes, creation dates, and navigate your system efficiently.

Example:

   2. netstat -an  

    The netstat (Network Statistics) command displays active network connections, listening ports, and protocol statistics.

Adding the -an flags shows all connections in numeric format (IP addresses and port numbers instead of domain names).

It’s commonly used for network troubleshooting, monitoring open ports, and detecting suspicious activity.

    Example:

3.tasklist 

    Displays a list of all currently running processes on your Windows system.
It’s like opening Task Manager → Details tab, but in command-line form.
You can use it to see process names, process IDs (PIDs), memory usage, and which user started them.

Example: 

4.driverquery - 

    

    It lists all installed drivers, their modules, and associated details such as type, link date, and path.

    Helps in troubleshooting driver issues, checking compatibility, and auditing system drivers.

Example:

5.nslookup - 

    

    The nslookup (Name Server Lookup) command is used to find the IP address of a domain name or         verify DNS records.

    It helps check whether your computer can connect to a website’s DNS correctly — very useful for         troubleshooting internet or DNS issue.

Example:

6.netsh wlan show profile name="Vivo t3 ultra" key=clear

    This command is used to view detailed information about a saved Wi-Fi network on your                computer — including its password (key), security type, and connection settings.
    It’s especially useful if you’ve connected to a Wi-Fi network earlier and forgot its password.

Example:

7.powercfg /batteryreport

    The powercfg /batteryreport command is used to generate a detailed battery health report for         laptops.

    It shows battery usage history, capacity, charge cycles, and overall health — helping users check if         their laptop battery is performing well or needs replacement.

Example:

8.arp -a 

    The arp -a command is used to display the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) table on your system.

It shows the mapping between IP addresses and MAC addresses of devices connected to your local network — useful for network troubleshooting, monitoring, or identifying connected devices.

Example:

9.devmgmt.msc

    

    The devmgmt.msc command opens the Device Manager in Windows.

Device Manager allows you to view, manage, update, or uninstall hardware drivers on your system — such as display adapters, network cards, sound devices, and more.

It’s one of the most useful commands for troubleshooting hardware problems or driver issues.

Example:

10.compmgmt.msc

The compmgmt.msc command opens the Computer Management Console in Windows.
It’s a centralized system tool that combines several administrative utilities — such as Device Manager, Disk Management, Event Viewer, Task Scheduler, and Local Users & Groups — all in one place.

This command is extremely useful for system administrators and power users to monitor and control various system functions quickly.

Example:

11.winget upgrade

The winget upgrade command is used to check for and update installed applications on your Windows system using the Windows Package Manager (winget).
It’s similar to Linux package managers like apt or dnf, making it a powerful tool for developers and tech users who want to manage software via command line.

Example:

12.winget upgrade --all

The winget upgrade --all command is used to automatically update every installed application on your Windows PC that has a newer version available in the Windows Package Manager (winget) repository.

It saves time by updating all outdated apps in one go — no need to open browsers or manually download installers. Perfect for keeping your system secure and up to date!

Example:

13.systeminfo | find "Original Install Date"

This command is used to find out the exact date and time when Windows was originally installed on your computer.

It’s handy for checking system age, installation history, or when you last reinstalled Windows — great for IT professionals and curious users alike.

Example:

14.echo Hello World

The echo command is used to display text or messages in the Command Prompt.
It’s often used in batch files and scripts to show information, debugging messages, or formatted output on the screen.

This is also one of the first commands beginners learn when starting with CMD or scripting!

Example:

15.title HACKER CONSOLE

The title command changes the text shown in the Command Prompt window’s title bar.
Great for customizing your terminal, labeling scripts, or giving a dramatic “hacker” vibe for demos and screenshots.

Example: