What is a batch file?
A batch file has the .bat or .cmd extension.
It is actually a set of MS-DOS command "coded" in the form of text file (for which the extension was changed).
One opened, the commands written in this file will be executed.
Prerequisites
- Uncheck the "Hide file extensions of the type known in the advanced options of Windows Explorer.
- Use a text editor that saves the file in plain text (not binary).
Create a blank batch file
- This is the basis for creating all type of batch files:
- Right click on the desktop -> New -> Text Document;
- Open this file and rename it as .bat or .cmd
Some useful examples of MS-DOS commands
- chkdsk: to check for errors on the filesystem.Note that: it can be used with the /f option to correct errors (requires restart the machine after confirmation O).
- Ping www.nameofwebsite.com initiate pings on IP addresses or domain name.
- Tracert www.nameofwebsite.com: Determines the route from your PC to remote IP addresses or domain name..
- Vol C: give the name of a disk drive and the serial number of the latter (Replace C: with the drive of your choice).
- Title TheTitleOfyourchoice: Change the title of the MS-DOS windows.
- Echo TheTextOfyourchoice: Displays text on screen
- Shutdown parameters:
- r: Restart the system.
- s: Turns off the system.
- p: Turns off the computer power without the usual delay. (For Vista and Seven).
- h: Set local computer into hibernation.
- rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStation: Locks the local computer.
- tasklist: Displays all running processes and their PID.
- Time: change the system time.
- systeminfo: Gives information on the physical and software configuration of the machine.
- Print pathtotextfile: Print a text file or a photo. Enter the address of the file as such: print *C:windowsphoto.jpg
- exit: Exit the actual MS-DOS window (always placed this command at the end of your batch files).
- cls: cleans out the actual screen.
These are the main MS-DOS command, of course there are still hundreds.
Create a batch file
Simply open your blank batch file and enter the commands you want:
Note that
It is clear that these commands are simple and implies low-risk,but still it is important to pay close attention to some MS-DOS commands that, if badly used may be dangerous!