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How to change directories in CMD (Command Prompt) in Windows 10 or Windows 11
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Updated onAugust 16, 2024
updated onAugust 16, 2024
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Updated December 5, 2022.
The Command Prompt, sometimes also referred to ascmd.exeorcmd, is a command line interpreter in Windows operating system, and has been in use since the earliest days of Microsoft operating systems, dating back to the DOS days. Offered as an alternative to Windows GUI, CMD offers far more control and functionalities to the average Windows user, than the normal GUI ever can.
But, before you canperform any wizardry with the CMD, you’ll first have to learn how to change directories in it. In this article, we’ve covered some of the easiest methods to change your Command Prompt directory in Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Change your Command Prompt directory with thecdcommand
Thecdcommand, short for “Change Directory,” lets you jump from one directory (folder) to another without a lot of hassle. Here’s what you need to do.
Changing the drive in CMD
If, in contrast, you want to change your directory altogether, then you’ll have to type the drive name, followed by:. So, if you’re in the “C:” drive right now, and you’d like to move into your “D:” drive, just type in “D:” in the CMD and hitEnter.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the CMD is case-insensitive, meaning that it treats capital and small case letters as the same. So, it doesn’t matter if you type “D:” or “d:”—CMD will interpret both of them as the same.
Another command that deserves special mention is thedircommand. Type in thedirin the CMD and you’ll see a list of files and folders inside the parent directory.
Now, if you want to go inside a specific directory from here, just use thecdcommand from above, along with the name of the directory, as we did above.
Change directories in CMD by dragging the folder
You can also use the GUI along with the CMD here. Type incdin the Command Prompt, drag the folder that you want to move in into Windows Terminal, and hitEnter. CMD will switch directly to the desired folder.
Changing directories in CMD
If becoming a pro in Windows Terminal is what you’re after, then being able to change your terminal directories is just one of many hacks you’ll be mastering along the way. Make no mistake, as this is only the beginning, and you’ll be learning a lot more when youdive into the Command Prompt more in-depth.
We also have a great guide onwhat is root directorythat will show you how to access and use this folder.
Radu Tyrsina
Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time).
For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web.
Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they’re looking for.
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Radu Tyrsina
