Beginner’s Guide: How to Use the Command Prompt (CMD) in Windows – 2025 Edition

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Beginner’s Guide: How to Use the Command Prompt (CMD) in Windows – 2025 Edition​

The Windows Command Prompt (CMD) might look intimidating, but it’s one of the most powerful tools on your PC. Whether you want to diagnose issues, automate tasks, or explore your system deeper, learning basic CMD commands can boost your efficiency and confidence as a Windows user.

In this 2025 beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through essential CMD commands and practical use cases—no advanced skills needed.

Related: Top 5 Windows Features You’re Not Using (But Should) in 2025

What Is Command Prompt?​

CMD is a built-in command-line interpreter for Windows that lets you interact with your computer via text-based commands. Think of it as a direct way to “talk” to your system without using the mouse.

To launch it:

• Press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter
• Or search for “Command Prompt” in Start Menu

1. ipconfig – Check Your Network Details​

Command:

ipconfig

This shows your current IP address, DNS, and gateway. Useful for troubleshooting Wi-Fi or LAN problems.

Tip: Why Is My Computer So Slow? Here’s Why.

2. ping – Test Internet Connection​

Command:

ping google.com

This checks if your PC can connect to the internet and how fast. If the result shows “Request timed out,” you’re offline.

3. sfc /scannow – Repair System Files​

Command (Run as Admin):

sfc /scannow

This scans for corrupted Windows system files and repairs them.

Also check: How to Speed Up Your Computer: 10 Easy Tips for Beginners

4. chkdsk – Check Disk Health​

Command:

chkdsk C: /f

Checks your drive for file system errors and fixes them. Great for freezes and random slowdowns.

5. shutdown /r /t 0 – Restart PC Instantly​

Command:

shutdown /r /t 0

The system restarts immediately. Handy for automation or remote restarts.

Bonus: Create a Wi-Fi Hotspot from CMD​

netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyHotspot key=yourpassword
netsh wlan start hostednetwork

This command helps share your internet connection wirelessly.

Final Tips for CMD Beginners​

• Always run CMD as Administrator when needed.
• Don’t run unfamiliar commands without knowing what they do.
• CMD is helpful for fixing, optimizing, and understanding your PC.

Related guides to explore:

• How to Prevent Your Computer from Overheating (Laptop/PC Tips)
• Top 10 Free Software Every Windows PC Should Have in 2025
• How to Speed Up a Slow Windows 10/11 PC
• Top 5 Windows Features You’re Not Using (But Should)

Tags:​

Windows CMD, Command Prompt 2025, CMD Beginner Guide, Windows Tips and Tricks, CMD for Beginners, PC Troubleshooting, Windows 10/11 Tools, CMD Tutorial 2025​