- Take advantage of commands shell and CMD in the address bar speeds up and optimizes access to key folders and utilities Windows 11
- This feature is useful for both everyday users and those looking to automate tasks or delve deeper into system management.
- Shortcuts, combinations and scripts in CMD and PowerShell multiply the possibilities of customization and productivity in Windows 11
In the world of Windows 11, there are tools and Tricks little-known tools that can transform the way you navigate, configure and manage your system. One of the most powerful and least explored features is the use of shell and CMD commands directly from the File Explorer address bar. This feature allows you to quickly access special folders, launch applications, and perform advanced tasks without resorting to endless menus or settings. It's also very useful for both everyday users and those looking to automate routines or improve their productivity.
Using these shortcuts and commands within Windows 11 may seem complicated at first, but once you put them into practice, they become essential resources.Here you'll discover how they work, how to use them in your daily life, and a compilation of the most useful commands and advanced tricks to take full advantage of your computer's potential.
What are shell commands and how do I use them in Windows 11?
On Windows systems, there are special paths that provide direct access to folders, tools, and functions that are usually somewhat hidden or difficult to find. By means of the prefix shell:, you can type a command in the File Explorer address bar to open that location without manually searching for itThink of them as secret shortcuts that save you time and clicks.
For example, if you write shell:Downloads and press Enter, you automatically access your folder downloadsThe same goes for other key locations, or even system tools. This functionality is used not only in the address bar, but also in the “Run” window (with Win + R) or by creating custom shortcutsIt's practical, fast, and perfect for those who prefer the keyboard to the mouse.
Advantages of Shell and CMD commands in the address bar
Among the main advantages of using these commands are:
- Significant time savings: They allow you to access hidden paths and applications without navigating through multiple menus.
- Task simplification: They facilitate automation and reduce unnecessary steps, ideal for advanced and technical users.
- Further customization: They allow you to create unique shortcuts for the folders or programs you use frequently.
- Increase in productivity: Knowing these shortcuts makes your workflow smoother and more efficient.
Furthermore, It is possible to access administrative tools, control panels and other elements that would otherwise be semi-hidden or only accessible with several clicks.
List of useful shell commands in Windows 11
Below is a selection of the most useful shell commands and their associated paths. These are ideal for using directly in the File Explorer address bar:
| Shell Command | Description or Route |
|---|---|
| shell: AppsFolder | Folder with all installed applications |
| shell: Administrative Tools | Current user administrative tools (hidden folder) |
| shell: AppUpdatesFolder | Installed updates |
| shell: Cache | Temporary files from Internet Explorer (hidden) |
| shell: CD Burning | Folder for files to be burned to disk (hidden) |
| shell: Common Desktop | Desktop shared by all users |
| shell: Common Documents | Public documents |
| shell: CommonDownloads | Shared downloads |
| shell: CommonMusic | Public music |
| shell: CommonPictures | Public images |
| shell: Common Programs | Common programs (hidden) |
| shell: Common Start Menu | Common start (hidden) |
| shell: Common Templates | Common templates (hidden) |
| shell: Desktop | Current user's desktop |
| shell: Downloads | Download folder |
| shell: Favorites | Favorites folder |
| shell:FontS | Fonts installed on the system |
| shell: Personal | User's personal documents |
| shell: PicturesLibrary | Image Library |
| shell: VideosLibrary | Video Library |
| shell: RecycleBinFolder | Recycle Bin |
| shell: Start Menu | Current user's start menu (hidden) |
| shell: System | System32 folder |
| shell: Windows | Windows home directory |
You can also use these commands when creating shortcuts so you always have them handy on your desktop or in any folder. You just have to right click, “New → Shortcut” and in the location enter, for example, explorer shell:Downloads.
Run applications from the Explorer address bar
Beyond shell commands, Windows 11 File Explorer allows you to launch applications and system utilities by typing the executable name directly into the address bar.. For example, if you enter notepad and press Enter, you will open Notepad instantly.
Some quick commands and their effects:
- tracing – Windows Calculator
- mspaint –Microsoft Paint
- cmd - Symbol of the system (DCM)
- powershell - PowerShell
- control – Classic Control Panel
- regedit – Windows Registry Editor
- taskmgr - Task Manager
This trick also works to launch tools like disk manager, event viewer or advanced utilities, simply by typing their executable, for example, diskmgmt.msc o eventvwr.msc.
Main CMD and PowerShell commands for daily management
Windows CMD and PowerShell are powerful tools for managing files, network, and system tasks. Here's a summary of the most important commands to use in both environments:
| Command | Function | |
|---|---|---|
| dir | Lists files and folders in the current location | |
| cd | change directory | |
| md / mkdir | Create new folders | |
| rd / rmdir | Delete folders (must be empty) | |
| of the | Delete files | |
| copy | Copy files from one place to another | |
| move | Move files or folders | |
| ren / rename | Rename files and folders | |
| xcopy | Copy folders with subfolders and files | |
| type | View the contents of text files in the console | |
| attrib | View and modify file attributes (hidden, read-only, etc.) | |
| format | Format units (very carefully) | |
| ipconfig | Display network information and IP settings | |
| ping | Check the status of the network connection with other devices | |
| tracert | Trace the path of packets on a network | |
| netstat | View active network connections | |
| net user | Manage local users | |
| shutdown | Shut down or restart the computer (local or remote) | |
| taskkill | End active processes | |
| sfc | Analyze and repair system files | |
| Dism | Maintaining and repairing Windows images |
These commands are the foundation for comfortable file management, troubleshooting, and automation in Windows 11. Most support additional parameters and options for more specific tasks.
Useful command line shortcuts and tricks
Commands are not only used in isolation. One of the main advantages of CMD and PowerShell is that you can combine them using special characters to execute several actions in succession or create simple scripts.
- && – Run the following command only if the previous one worked correctly.
cd C:\MisDocumentos && dir - | – Sends the output of one command to another (canalization).
ipconfig | clip(copy the output to clipboard) - > – Redirects output to a file.
dir > listado.txt(save the list to a file) - /? – Displays help for any command.
ping /?
Furthermore, You can use the TAB key to autocomplete file and folder names. when typing long commands. It helps you save time and avoid errors!
Differences between CMD, PowerShell and Shell commands
Although all three allow you to manage Windows from the command line, CMD and PowerShell have different functions and syntax. CMD is the classic "command prompt," ideal for basic tasks, simple scripts, and universal commands. PowerShell, on the other hand, is much more powerful and flexible, allowing you to run cmdlets complex, manage advanced configurations and remote operations. Shell commands (shell:) are specific to special folder shortcuts, while CMD and PowerShell can run programs, scripts, and even access those paths if the full path is specified.
Solutions to common problems with the terminal and Windows terminal
Since the Windows 22 2H11 update, the system uses the default Bus Terminal Windows to open consoles such as CMD or PowerShell. If you experience incompatibilities with some graphical or text applications, you can change the default terminal through several options:
- From Windows Settings: Start > Settings > System > For developers > Terminal > Windows Console Host.
- From Windows Terminal: Open Terminal > Home tab > Default Terminal Application > Windows Console Host.
- Or from the properties of any open console: right-click on the title bar > Properties > Windows Console Host.
In advanced cases, the Registry can also be modified to select the desired console host, useful for administrators or enterprise environments.
Advanced management: creation, editing, and automation of profiles and scripts
In PowerShell and Windows Terminal, you can customize profiles, settings, and scripts. For example:
- Set the home directory in each profile.
- Configure the icon from the profile or enable opening as administrator by default.
- Hide profiles that you do not want to appear in the drop-down menu.
You can also define complete scripts to automate repetitive tasks, such as backups, program launches, or system scans. All of this increases your management capabilities without relying on the graphical interface.
Command Line Tricks and Shortcuts: Get the Most Out of It
Not everything is commands: There are keyboard shortcuts and tricks that increase your speed in CMD and PowerShell.:
- ESC: Deletes the current line you are typing.
- Up and down arrows: Browse the command history.
- F7: Displays a list of recent commands.
- Ctrl + C: Cancels the execution of a command in progress.
- F11: Activate full screen mode.
- F3/F1: Repeat the last command (F3) or type character by character (F1).
- TAB: Autocompletes file and folder names.
Mastering these little tricks will make you much more efficient at technical tasks and system management.
By knowing and practicing these commands and shortcuts, you'll be able to get even more out of Windows 11. The address bar, combined with shell commands, CMD, and PowerShell, can transform the way you work and automate tasks easily. From accessing hidden paths to quickly launching applications or creating time-saving scripts, the possibilities for those who decide to dig deeper are almost endless.
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