How to Start Windows Explorer from Command Prompt
In the world of Windows operating systems, the Command Prompt is a powerful tool that allows users to execute various commands and perform tasks that are not accessible through the graphical user interface. One such task is starting Windows Explorer, which is the file manager used to navigate through files and folders on your computer. This article will guide you through the steps to start Windows Explorer from the Command Prompt.
Understanding Windows Explorer
Before diving into the steps, it’s essential to understand what Windows Explorer is. Windows Explorer is a file manager that allows users to browse, manage, and manipulate files and folders on their computer. It is an essential component of the Windows operating system and is often used to open files, search for content, and perform various file management tasks.
Steps to Start Windows Explorer from Command Prompt
1. Open Command Prompt: To start Windows Explorer from the Command Prompt, you first need to open the Command Prompt. You can do this by pressing the Windows key + R, typing “cmd” in the Run dialog box, and pressing Enter.
2. Navigate to the Windows Explorer executable: The Windows Explorer executable is located in the System32 folder, which is typically found in the C:\Windows directory. To navigate to this directory, type the following command and press Enter:
“`
cd C:\Windows\System32
“`
3. Start Windows Explorer: Once you are in the System32 folder, you can start Windows Explorer by typing the following command and pressing Enter:
“`
start explorer.exe
“`
This command will launch Windows Explorer, and you will see the file manager window open on your desktop.
Alternative Methods to Start Windows Explorer
If you prefer not to navigate to the System32 folder, you can use the following alternative methods to start Windows Explorer from the Command Prompt:
1. Use the full path: Instead of navigating to the System32 folder, you can use the full path to the Windows Explorer executable in the command. Type the following command and press Enter:
“`
start C:\Windows\System32\explorer.exe
“`
2. Use the `start` command with the `shell` parameter: You can also use the `start` command with the `shell` parameter to open Windows Explorer. Type the following command and press Enter:
“`
start shell:\
“`
This command will open Windows Explorer at the root of your system drive.
Conclusion
Starting Windows Explorer from the Command Prompt is a useful trick for power users who prefer to use the command line for various tasks. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily launch Windows Explorer from the Command Prompt and navigate through your files and folders efficiently.
