Ms Dos Command

Sheet1COMMANDDESCRIPTIONANSI.SYSDefines functions that change display graphics, control cursor movement, and reassign keys.APPENDCauses MS-DOS to look in other directories when editing a file or running a command.ARPDisplays, adds, and removes arp information from network devices.ASSIGNAssign a drive letter to an alternate letter.ASSOCView the file associations.ATSchedule a time to execute commands or programs.ATMADMLists connections and addresses seen by Windows ATM call manager.ATTRIBDisplay and change file attributes.BATCHRecovery console command that executes a series of commands in a file.BOOTCFGRecovery console command that allows a user to view, modify, and rebuild the boot.iniBREAKEnable / disable CTRL + C feature.CACLSView and modify file ACL's.CALLCalls a batch file from another batch file.CDChanges directories.CHCPSupplement the International keyboard and character set information.CHDIRChanges directories.CHKDSKCheck the hard disk drive running FAT for errors.CHKNTFSCheck the hard disk drive running NTFS for errors.CHOICESpecify a listing of multiple options within a batch file.CLSClears the screen.CMDOpens the command interpreter.COLOREasily change the foreground and background color of the MS-DOS window.COMMANDOpens the command interpreter.COMPCompares files.COMPACTCompresses and uncompress files.CONTROLOpen control panel icons from the MS-DOS prompt.CONVERTConvert FAT to NTFS.COPYCopy one or more files to an alternate location.CTTYChange the computers input/output devices.DATEView or change the systems date.DEBUGDebug utility to create assembly programs to modify hardware settings.DEFRAGRe-arrange the hard disk drive to help with loading programs.DELDeletes one or more files.DELETERecovery console command that deletes a file.DELTREEDeletes one or more files and/or directories.DIRList the contents of one or more directory.DISABLERecovery console command that disables Windows system services or drivers.DISKCOMPCompare a disk with another disk.DISKCOPYCopy the contents of one disk and place them on another disk.DOSKEYCommand to view and execute commands that have been run in the past.DOSSHELLA GUI to help with early MS-DOS users.DRIVPARMEnables overwrite of original device drivers.ECHODisplays messages and enables and disables echo.EDITView and edit files.EDLINView and edit files.EMM386Load extended Memory Manager.ENABLERecovery console command to enable a disable service or driver.ENDLOCALStops the localization of the environment changes enabled by the setlocal command.ERASEErase files from computer.EXITExit from the command interpreter.EXPANDExpand a Microsoft Windows file back to it's original format.EXTRACTExtract files from the Microsoft Windows cabinets.FASTHELPDisplays a listing of MS-DOS commands and information about them.FCCompare files.FDISKUtility used to create partitions on the hard disk drive.FINDSearch for text within a file.FINDSTRSearches for a string of text within a file.FIXBOOTWrites a new boot sector.FIXMBRWrites a new boot record to a disk drive.FORBoolean used in batch files.FORMATCommand to erase and prepare a disk drive.FTPCommand to connect and operate on a FTP server.FTYPEDisplays or modifies file types used in file extension associations.GOTOMoves a batch file to a specific label or location.GRAFTABLShow extended characters in graphics mode.HELPDisplay a listing of commands and brief explanation.IFAllows for batch files to perform conditional processing.IFSHLP.SYS32-bit file manager.IPCONFIGNetwork command to view network adapter settings and assigned values.KEYBChange layout of keyboard.LABELChange the label of a disk drive.LHLoad a device driver in to high memory.LISTSVCRecovery console command that displays the services and drivers.LOADFIXLoad a program above the first 64k.LOADHIGHLoad a device driver in to high memory.LOCKLock the hard disk drive.LOGONRecovery console command to list installations and enable administrator login.MAPDisplays the device name of a drive.MDCommand to create a new directory.MEMDisplay memory on system.MKDIRCommand to create a new directory.MODEModify the port or display settings.MOREDisplay one page at a time.MOVEMove one or more files from one directory to another directory.MSAVEarly Microsoft Virus scanner.MSDDiagnostics utility.MSCDEXUtility used to load and provide access to the CD-ROM.NBTSTATDisplays protocol statistics and current TCP/IP connections using NBTNETUpdate, fix, or view the network or network settingsNETSHConfigure dynamic and static network information from MS-DOS.NETSTATDisplay the TCP/IP network protocol statistics and information.NLSFUNCLoad country specific information.NSLOOKUPLook up an IP address of a domain or host on a network.PATHView and modify the computers path location.PATHPINGView and locate locations of network latency.PAUSECommand used in batch files to stop the processing of a command.PINGTest / send information to another network computer or network device.POPDChanges to the directory or network path stored by the pushd command.POWERConserve power with computer portables.PRINTPrints data to a printer port.PROMPTView and change the MS-DOS prompt.PUSHDStores a directory or network path in memory so it can be returned to at any time.QBASICOpen the QBasic.RDRemoves an empty directory.RENRenames a file or directory.RENAMERenames a file or directory.RMDIRRemoves an empty directory.ROUTEView and configure windows network route tables.RUNASEnables a user to execute a program on another computer.SCANDISKRun the scandisk utility.SCANREGScan registry and recover registry from errors.SETChange one variable or string to another.SETLOCALEnables local environments to be changed without affecting anything else.SETVERChange MS-DOS version to trick older MS-DOS programs.SHAREInstalls support for file sharing and locking capabilities.SHIFTChanges the position of replaceable parameters in a batch program.SHUTDOWN Shutdown the computer from the MS-DOS prompt.SMARTDRVCreate a disk cache in conventional memory or extended memory.SORTSorts the input and displays the output to the screen.STARTStart a separate window in Windows from the MS-DOS prompt.SUBSTSubstitute a folder on your computer for another drive letter.SWITCHESRemove add functions from MS-DOS.SYSTransfer system files to disk drive.TELNETTelnet to another computer / device from the prompt.TIMEView or modify the system time.TITLEChange the title of their MS-DOS window.TRACERTVisually view a network packets route across a network.TREEView a visual tree of the hard disk drive.TYPEDisplay the contents of a file.UNDELETEUndelete a file that has been deleted.UNFORMATUnformat a hard disk drive.UNLOCKUnlock a disk drive.VERDisplay the version information.VERIFYEnables or disables the feature to determine if files have been written properly.VOLDisplays the volume information about the designated drive.XCOPYCopy multiple files, directories, and/or drives from one location to another.DOS Command IndexInformation about all current DOS commandsFrom the bookDOS the Easy Wayby Everett Murdock Ph.D.CLICK HERE for information about downloading the book DOS the Easy Way.Click on a command name for complete information about that command and examples of its use.APPEND(External)APPEND ;APPEND [d:]path[;][d:]path[...]APPEND [/X:on|off][/path:on|off] [/E]Displays or sets the search path for data files. DOS will search the specified path(s) if the file is not found in the current path.ASSIGN(External)ASSIGN x=y [...] /staRedirects disk drive requests to a different drive.ATTRIB(External)ATTRIB [d:][path]filename [/S]ATTRIB [+R|-R] [+A|-A] [+S|-S] [+H|-H] [d:][path]filename [/S]Sets or displays the read-only, archive, system, and hidden attributes of a file or directory.BACKUP(External)BACKUP d:[path][filename] d:[/S][/M][/A][/F:(size)] [/P][/D:date] [/T:time] [/L:[path]filename]Makes a backup copy of one or more files. (In DOS Version 6, this program is stored on the DOS supplemental disk.)BREAK(Internal)BREAK =on|offUsed from the DOS prompt or in a batch file or in the CONFIG.SYS file to set (or display) whether or not DOS should check for a Ctrl + Break key combination.BUFFERS(Internal)BUFFERS=(number),(read-ahead number)Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to set the number of disk buffers (number) that will be available for use during data input. Also used to set a value for the number of sectors to be read in advance (read-ahead) during data input operations.CALL(Internal)CALL [d:][path]batchfilename [options]Calls another batch file and then returns to current batch file to continue.CHCP(Internal)CHCP (codepage)Displays the current code page or changes the code page that DOS will use.CHDIR(Internal)CHDIR (CD) [d:]pathCHDIR (CD)[..]Displays working (current) directory and/or changes to a different directory.CHKDSK(External)CHKDSK [d:][path][filename] [/F][/V]Checks a disk and provides a file and memory status report.CHOICE(Internal)CHOICE [/C[:]keys] [/N][/S][/T[:]c,nn] [text]Used to provide a prompt so that a user can make a choice while a batch program is running.CLS (Clear Screen)(Internal)CLSClears (erases) the screen.COMMAND(External)COMMAND [d:][path] [device] [/P][/E:(size)] [/MSG][/Y [/C (command)|/K (command)]Starts a new version of the DOS command processor (the program that loads the DOS Internal programs).COMP(External)COMP [d:][path][filename] [d:][path][filename] [/A][/C][/D][/L][/N:(number)]Compares two groups of files to find information that does not match. (See FC command).COPY(Internal)COPY [/Y|-Y] [/A][/B] [d:][path]filename [/A][/B] [d:][path][filename] [/V]orCOPY [/Y|-Y][/A][/B] [d:][path]filename+[d:][path]filename[...][d:][path][filename] [/V]Copies and appends files.COUNTRY(Internal)COUNTRY=country code,[code page][,][d:][filename]Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to tell DOS to use country-specific text conventions during processing.CTTY(Internal)CTTY (device)Changes the standard I/O (Input/Output) device to an auxiliary device.DATE(Internal)DATE mm-dd-yyDisplays and/or sets the system date.DBLSPACE(External)DBLSPACE / automount=drivesDBLSPACE /chkdsk [/F] [d:]DBLSPACE /compress d: [/newdrive=host:] [/reserve=size] [/F]DBLSPACE /create d: [/newdrive=host:] [/reserve=size] [/size=size]DBLSPACE /defragment [d:] ]/F]DBLSPACE /delete d:DBLSPACE /doubleguard=0|1DBLSPACE /format d:DBLSPACE [/info] [d:]DBLSPACE /listDBLSPACE /mount[=nnn] host: [/newdrive=d:]DBLSPACE /ratio[=ratio] [d:] [/all]DBLSPACE /size[=size] [/reserve=size] d:DBLSPACE /uncompress d:DBLSPACE /unmount [d:]A program available with DOS 6.0 that allows you to compress information on a disk.DEBUG(External)DEBUG [pathname] [parameters]An MS-DOS utility used to test and edit programs.DEFRAG(External)DEFRAG [d:] [/F][/S[:]order] [/B][/skiphigh [/LCD|/BW|/GO] [/H]DEFRAG [d:] [/V][/B][/skiphigh] [/LCD]|/BW|/GO] [/H]Optimizes disk performance by reorganizing the files on the disk.DEL (ERASE)(Internal)DEL (ERASE) [d:][path]filename [/P]Deletes (erases) files from disk.DELOLDOS(External)DELOLDOS [/B]Deletes all files from previous versions of DOS after a 5.0 or 6.0 installation.DELTREE(External)DELTREE [/Y] [d:]path [d:]path[...]Deletes (erases) a directory including all files and subdirectories that are in it.DEVICE(Internal)DEVICE=(driver name)Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to tell DOS which device driver to load.DEVICEHIGH(Internal)DEVICEHIGH=(driver name)Like DEVICE, DEVICEHIGH is used in the CONFIG.SYS file to tell DOS which device driver software to use for devices; however, this option is used to install the device driver into the upper memory area.DIR(Internal)DIR [d:][path][filename] [/A:(attributes)] [/O:(order)] [/B][/C][/CH][/L][/S][/P][/W]Displays directory of files and directories stored on disk.DISKCOMP(External)DISKCOMP [d:] [d:][/1][/8]Compares the contents of two diskettes.DISKCOPY(External)DISKCOPY [d:] [d:][/1][/V][/M]Makes an exact copy of a diskette.DOS(Internal)DOS=[high|low],[umb|noumb]Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to specify the memory location for DOS. It is used to load DOS into the upper memory area and to specify whether or not the upper memory blocks will be used.DOSKEY(External)DOSKEY [reinstall] [/bufsize=size][/macros][/history][/insert|/overstrike] [macroname=[text]]Loads the Doskey program into memory which can be used to recall DOS commands so that you can edit them.DOSSHELL(External)DOSSHELL [/B] [/G:[resolution][n]]|[/T:[resolution][n]]Initiates the graphic shell program using the specified screen resolution.DRIVPARM(Internal)DRIVPARM= /D:(number) [/C] [/F:(form factor)] [/H:(number)] [/I][ /N][/S:(number)] [/T:(tracks)]Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to set parameters for a disk drive.ECHO(Internal)ECHO on|offECHO (message)Displays messages or turns on or off the display of commands in a batch file.EDIT(External)EDIT [d:][path]filename [/B][/G][/H][/NOHI]Starts the MS-DOS editor, a text editor used to create and edit ASCII text files.EMM386(External)EMM386 [on|off|auto] [w=on|off]Enables or disables EMM386 expanded-memory support on a computer with an 80386 or higher processor.EXE2BIN(External)EXE2BIN [d:][path]filename [d:][path]filenameConverts .EXE (executable) files to binary format.EXIT(Internal)EXITExits a secondary command processor.EXPAND(External)EXPAND [d:][path]filename [[d:][path]filename[ . . .]]Expands a compressed file.FASTHELP(External)FASTHELP [command][command] /?Displays a list of DOS commands with a brief explanation of each.FASTOPEN(External)FASTOPEN d:[=n][/X]Keeps track of the locations of files for fast access.FC(External)FC [/A][/C][/L][/Lb n][/N][/T][/W][number] [d:][path]filename [d:][path]filenameor (for binary comparisons)FC [/B][/number] [d:][path]filename [d:][path]filenameDisplays the differences between two files or sets of files.FCBS(Internal)FCBS=(number)Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to specify the number of file-control blocks for file sharing.FDISK(External)FDISK [/status]Prepares a fixed disk to accept DOS files for storage.FILES(Internal)FILES=(number)Used in the CONFIG.Sys file to specify the maximum number of files that can be open at the same time.FIND(External)FIND [/V][/C][/I][/N] string [d:][path]filename[...]Finds and reports the location of a specific string of text characters in one or more files.FOR(Internal)FOR %%(variable) IN (set) DO (command)or (for interactive processing)FOR %(variable) IN (set) DO (command)Performs repeated execution of commands (for both batch processing and interactive processing).FORMAT(External)FORMAT d:[/1][/4][/8][/F:(size)] [/N:(sectors)] [/T:(tracks)][/B|/S][/C][/V:(label)] [/Q][/U][/V]Formats a disk to accept DOS files.GOTO(Internal)GOTO (label)Causes unconditional branch to the specified label.GRAFTABL(External)GRAFTABL [(code page)]GRAFTABL [status]Loads a table of character data into memory (for use with a color/graphics adapter).GRAPHICS(External)GRAPHICS [printer type][profile] [/B][/R][/LCD][/PB:(id)] [/C][/F][/P(port)]Provides a way to print contents of a graphics screen display.HELP(External)HELP [command] [/B][/G][/H][/NOHI]Displays information about a DOS command.IF(Internal)IF [NOT] EXIST filename (command) [parameters]IF [NOT] (string1)==(string2) (command) [parameters]IF [NOT] ERRORLEVEL (number) (command) [parameters]Allows for conditional operations in batch processing.INCLUDE(Internal)INCLUDE= blocknameUsed in the CONFIG.SYS file to allow you to use the commands from one CONFIG.SYS block within another.INSTALL(Internal)INSTALL=[d: ][\path]filename [parameters]Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to load memory-resident programs into conventional memory.INTERLINK(External)INTERLINK [client[:]=[server][:]]Connects two computers via parallel or serial ports so that the computers can share disks and printer ports.INTERSVR(External)INTERSVR [d:][...][/X=d:][...] [/LPT:[n|address]] [/COM:[n|address]][/baud:rate] [/B][/V]INTERSVR /RCOPYStarts the Interlink server.JOIN(External)JOIN d: [d:path]JOIN d: [/D]Allows access to the directory structure and files of a drive through a directory on a different drive.KEYB(External)KEYB [xx][,][yyy][,][d:][path]filename [/E][/ID:(number)]Loads a program that replaces the support program for U. S. keyboards.LABEL(External)LABEL [d:][volume label]Creates or changes or deletes a volume label for a disk.LASTDRIVE(Internal)LASTDRIVE=(drive letter)Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to set the maximum number of drives that can be accessed.LOADFIX(Internal)LOADFIX [d:][path]filename [parameters]Ensures that a program is loaded above the first 64K of conventional memory, and runs the program.LOADHIGH(Internal)LOADHIGH (LH) [d:][path]filename [parameters]Loads memory resident application into reserved area of memory (between 640K-1M).MEM(External)MEM [/program|/debug|/classify|/free|/module(name)] [/page]Displays amount of installed and available memory, including extended, expanded, and upper memory.MEMMAKER(External)MEMMAKER [/B][/batch][/session][/swap:d] [/T][/undo][/W:size1,size2]Starts the MemMaker program, a program that lets you optimize your computer's memory.MENUCOLOR(Internal)MENUCOLOR=textcolor,[background]Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to set the colors that will be used by DOS to display text on the screen.MENUDEFAULT(Internal)MENUDEFAULT=blockname, [timeout]Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to set the startup configuration that will be used by DOS if no key is pressed within the specified timeout period.MENUITEM(Internal)MENUITEM=blockname, [menutext]Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to create a start-up menu from which you can select a group of CONFIG.SYS commands to be processed upon reboot.MIRROR(External)MIRROR [d:]path [d:] path [...]MIRROR [d1:][d2:][...] [/T(drive)(files)] [/partn][/U][/1]Saves disk storage information that can be used to recover accidentally erased files.MKDIR(MD) (Internal)MKDIR (MD) [d:]pathCreates a new subdirectory.MODE(External)MODE nMODE LPT#[:][n][,][m][,][P][retry]MODE [n],m[,T]MODE (displaytype,linetotal)MODE COMn[:]baud[,][parity][,][databits][,][stopbits][,][retry]MODE LPT#[:]=COMn [retry]MODE CON[RATE=(number)][DELAY=(number)]MODE (device) CODEPAGE PREPARE=(codepage) [d:][path]filenameMODE (device) CODEPAGE PREPARE=(codepage list) [d:][path]filenameMODE (device) CODEPAGE SELECT=(codepage)MODE (device) CODEPAGE [/STATUS]MODE (device) CODEPAGE REFRESHSets mode of operation for devices or communications.MORE(External)MORE < (filename or command)(name)|MORESends output to console, one screen at a time.MOVE(Internal)MOVE [/Y|/-Y] [d:][path]filename[,[d:][path]filename[...]] destinationMoves one or more files to the location you specify. Can also be used to rename directories.MSAV(External)MSAV [d:] [/S|/C][/R][/A][/L][/N][/P][/F][/video][/mouse]MSAV /videoScans your computer for known viruses.MSBACKUP(External)MSBACKUP [setupfile] [/BW|/LCD|/MDA]Used to backup or restore one or more files from one disk to another.MSCDEX(External)MSCDEX /D:driver [/D:driver2. . .] [/E][/K][/S][/V][/L:letter] [/M:number]Used to gain access to CD-ROM drives (new with DOS Version 6).MSD(External)MSD [/B][/I]MSD [/I] [/F[d:][path]filename [/P[d:][path]filename [/S[d:][path]filenameProvides detailed technical information about your computer.NLSFUNC(External)NLSFUNC [d:][path]filenameUsed to load a file with country-specific information.NUMLOCK(Internal)NUMLOCK=on|offUsed in the CONFIG.SYS file to specify the state of the NumLock key.PATH(Internal)PATH;PATH [d:]path[;][d:]path[...]Sets or displays directories that will be searched for programs not in the current directory.PAUSE(Internal)PAUSE [comment]Suspends execution of a batch file until a key is pressed.POWER(External)POWER [adv:max|reg|min]|std|off]Used to turn power management on and off, report the status of power management, and set levels of power conservation.PRINT(External)PRINT [/B:(buffersize)] [/D:(device)] [/M:(maxtick)] [/Q:(value] [/S:(timeslice)][/U:(busytick)] [/C][/P][/T] [d:][path][filename] [...]Queues and prints data files.PROMPT(Internal)PROMPT [prompt text] [options]Changes the DOS command prompt.RECOVER(External)RECOVER [d:][path]filenameRECOVER d:Resolves sector problems on a file or a disk. (Beginning with DOS Version 6, RECOVER is no longer available ).REM(Internal)REM [comment]Used in batch files and in the CONFIG.SYS file to insert remarks (that will not be acted on).RENAME (REN)(Internal)RENAME (REN) [d:][path]filename [d:][path]filenameChanges the filename under which a file is stored.REPLACE(External)REPLACE [d:][path]filename [d:][path] [/A][/P][/R][/S][/U][/W]Replaces stored files with files of the same name from a different storage location.RESTORE(External)RESTORE d: [d:][path]filename [/P][/S][/B:mm-dd-yy] [/A:mm-dd-yy][/E:hh:mm:ss] [/L:hh:mm:ss] [/M][/N][/D]Restores to standard disk storage format files previously stored using the BACKUP command.RMDIR (RD)(Internal)RMDIR (RD) [d:]pathRemoves a subdirectory.SCANDISK(External)SCANDISK [d: [d: . . .]|/all][/checkonly|/autofix[/nosave]|/custom][/surface][/mono][/nosummay]SCANDISK volume-name[/checkonly|/autofix[/nosave]|/custom][/mono][/nosummary]SCANDISK /fragment [d:][path]filenameSCANDISK /undo [undo-d:][/mono]Starts the Microsoft ScanDisk program which is a disk analysis and repair tool used to check a drive for errors and correct any problems that it finds.SELECT(External)SELECT [d:] [d:][path] [country code][keyboard code]Formats a disk and installs country-specific information and keyboard codes (starting with DOS Version 6, this command is no longer available).SET(Internal)SET (string1)=(string2)Inserts strings into the command environment. The set values can be used later by programs.SETVER(External)SETVER [d:]:path][filename (number)][/delete][/quiet]Displays the version table and sets the version of DOS that is reported to programs.SHARE(External)SHARE [/F:space] [/L:locks]Installs support for file sharing and file locking.SHELL(Internal)SHELL=[d:][path]filename [parameters]Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to specify the command interpreter that DOS should use.SHIFT(Internal)SHIFTIncreases number of replaceable parameters to more than the standard ten for use in batch files.SORT(External)SORT [/R][/+n] < (filename)SORT [/R][/+n] > (filename2)Sorts input and sends it to the screen or to a file.STACKS(Internal)STACKS=(number),(size)Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to set the number of stack frames and the size of each stack frame.SUBMENU(Internal)SUBMENU=blockname, [menutext]Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to create a multilevel menu from which you can select start-up options.SUBST(External)SUBST d: d:pathSUBST d: /DSubstitutes a virtual drive letter for a path designation.SWITCHES(Internal)SWITCHES= [/K][/F][/N][/W]Used in the CONFIG.SYS file to configure DOS in a special way; for example, to tell DOS to emulate different hardware configurations.SYS(External)SYS [source] d:Transfers the operating system files to another disk.TIME(Internal)TIME hh:mm[:ss][.cc][A|P]Displays current time setting of system clock and provides a way for you to reset the time.TREE(External)TREE [d:][path] [/A][/F]Displays directory paths and (optionally) files in each subdirectory.TYPE(Internal)TYPE [d:][path]filenameDisplays the contents of a file.UNDELETE(External)UNDELETE [d:][path][filename] [/DT|/DS|/DOS]UNDELETE [/list|/all|/purge[d:]|/status|/load|/U|/S[d:]|/Td:[-entries]]Restores files deleted with the DELETE command.UNFORMAT(External)UNFORMAT d: [/J][/L][/test][/partn][/P][/U]Used to undo the effects of formatting a disk.VER(Internal)VERDisplays the DOS version number.VERIFY(Internal)VERIFY on|offTurns on the verify mode; the program checks all copying operations to assure that files are copied correctly.VOL(Internal)VOL [d:]Displays a disk's volume label.VSAFE(External)VSAFE [/option[+|-]...] [/NE][/NX][Ax|/Cx] [/N][/D][/U]VSAFE is a memory-resident program that continuously monitors your computer for viruses and displays a warning when it finds one.XCOPY(External)XCOPY [d:][path]filename [d:][path][filename] [/A][/D:(date)] [/E][/M][/P][/S][/V][/W][Y\-Y]Copies directories, subdirectories, and files.Syntax NotesTo be functional, each DOS command must be entered in a particular way: this command entry structure is known as the command's "syntax." The syntax "notation" is a way to reproduce the command syntax in print.For example, you can determine the items that are optional, by looking for information that is printed inside square brackets. The notation [d:], for example, indicates an optional drive designation. The command syntax, on the other hand, is how YOU enter the command to make it work.Command Syntax Elements1. Command NameThe DOS command name is the name you enter to start the DOS program (a few of the DOS commands can be entered using shortcut names). The DOS command name is always entered first. In this book, the command is usually printed in uppercase letters, but you can enter command names as either lowercase or uppercase or a mix of both.2. SpaceAlways leave a space after the command name.3. Drive DesignationThe drive designation (abbreviated in this book as "d:") is an option for many DOS commands. However, some commands are not related to disk drives and therefore do not require a drive designation. Whenever you enter a DOS command that deals with disk drives and you are already working in the drive in question, you do not have to enter the drive designator. For example, if you are working in drive A (when the DOS prompt A> is showing at the left side of the screen) and you want to use the DIR command to display a directory listing of that same drive, you do not have to enter the drive designation. If you do not enter a drive designation, DOS always assumes you are referring to the drive you are currently working in (sometimes called the "default" drive).4. A ColonWhen referring to a drive in a DOS command, you must always follow the drive designator with a colon (:) (this is how DOS recognizes it as a drive designation).5. PathnameA pathname (path) refers to the path you want DOS to follow in order to act on the DOS command. As described in Chapter 3, it indicates the path from the current directory or subdirectory to the files that are to be acted upon.6. FilenameA filename is the name of a file stored on disk. As described in Chapter 1, a filename can be of eight or fewer letters or other legal characters.7. Filename ExtensionA filename extension can follow the filename to further identify it. The extension follows a period and can be of three or fewer characters. A filename extension is not required.8. SwitchesCharacters shown in a command syntax that are represented by a letter or number and preceded by a forward slash (for example, "/P") are command options (sometimes known as "switches"). Use of these options activate special operations as part of a DOS command's functions.9. BracketsItems enclosed in square brackets are optional; in other words, the command will work in its basic form without entering the information contained inside the brackets.10. EllipsesEllipses (...) indicate that an item in a command syntax can be repeated as many times as needed.11. Vertical BarWhen items are separated by a vertical bar (|), it means that you enter one of the separated items. For example: ON | OFF means that you can enter either ON or OFF, but not both.

ANSI.SYSAPPENDARPDisplays, adds, and removes arp information from network devices.ASSIGNASSOCATATMADMLists connections and addresses seen by Windows ATM call manager.ATTRIBBATCHBOOTCFGBREAKCACLSView and modify file ACL's.CALLCDCHCPCHDIRCHKDSKCheck the hard disk drive running FAT for errors.CHKNTFSCheck the hard disk drive running NTFS for errors.CHOICECLSCMDCOLORCOMMANDCOMPCOMPACTCONTROLCONVERTCOPYCTTYDATEDEBUGDEFRAGDELDELETEDELTREEDIRDISABLEDISKCOMPDISKCOPYDOSKEYDOSSHELLDRIVPARMECHOEDITEDLINEMM386ENABLEENDLOCALStops the localization of the environment changes enabled by the setlocal command.ERASEEXITEXPANDEXTRACTFASTHELPFCFDISKFINDFINDSTRFIXBOOTFIXMBRFORFORMATFTPCommand to connect and operate on a FTP server.FTYPEGOTOGRAFTABLHELPIFAllows for batch files to perform conditional processing.IFSHLP.SYSIPCONFIGKEYBLABELLHLISTSVCLOADFIXLOADHIGHLOCKLOGONMAPMDMEMMKDIRMODEMOREMOVEMSAVMSDMSCDEXNBTSTATDisplays protocol statistics and current TCP/IP connections using NBTNETNETSHNETSTATDisplay the TCP/IP network protocol statistics and information.NLSFUNCNSLOOKUPPATHPATHPINGPAUSEPINGPOPDChanges to the directory or network path stored by the pushd command.POWERPRINTPROMPTView and change the MS-DOS prompt.PUSHDQBASICRDRENRENAMERMDIRROUTERUNASSCANDISKSCANREGSETSETLOCALSETVERSHARESHIFTSHUTDOWN SMARTDRVSORTSTARTSUBSTSWITCHESSYSTELNETTelnet to another computer / device from the prompt.TIMETITLETRACERTTREETYPEUNDELETEUNFORMATUNLOCKVERVERIFYVOLXCOPYDOS the Easy Wayby Everett Murdock Ph.D.CLICK HERE for information about downloading the book DOS the Easy Way.APPENDASSIGNATTRIBBACKUPBREAKBUFFERSCALLCHCPCHDIRCHKDSKCHOICECLS (Clear Screen)COMMANDCOMPCOPYCOUNTRYCTTYDATEDBLSPACEDEBUGDEFRAGDEL (ERASE)DELOLDOSDELTREEDEVICEDEVICEHIGHDIRDISKCOMPDISKCOPYDOSDOSKEYDOSSHELLDRIVPARMECHOEDITEMM386EXE2BINEXITEXPANDFASTHELPFASTOPENFCFCBSFDISKFILESFINDFORFORMATGOTOGRAFTABLGRAPHICSHELPIFINCLUDEINSTALLINTERLINKINTERSVRJOINKEYBLABELLASTDRIVELOADFIXLOADHIGHMEMMEMMAKERMENUCOLORMENUDEFAULTMENUITEMMIRRORMKDIRMODEMOREMOVEMSAVMSBACKUPMSCDEXMSDNLSFUNCNUMLOCKPATHPAUSEPOWERPRINTPROMPTRECOVERREMRENAME (REN)REPLACERESTORERMDIR (RD)SCANDISKSELECTSETSETVERSHARESHELLSHIFTSORTSTACKSSUBMENUSUBSTSWITCHESSYSTIMETREETYPEUNDELETEUNFORMATVERVERIFYVOLVSAFEXCOPY

Sheet2Example MS/DOS CommandsIn the following examples of DOS commands the actual words or letters you type are inclosed in brackets and highlighted in blue. DO NOT include the brackets [ ] in your command.Command MenuThe Type CommandSet the System TimeCopy and Rename a FileRename a FileCopy a File to Another DirectoryDelete a FileCopy a File to Another DriveUndelete a FileCopy Groups to Another DirectoryUndelete ProtectionCopy All Files to Another DriveDisplay a Volume LableCheck System MemoryChange a Volume LabelSet the DOS PathCheck Disk SpaceCheck the DOS VersionThe Directory CommandSet the System DateThe Type CommandFrom time to time you will have a requirement to look at the contents of a text file. Normally you would think the only way to do this is to open a word processor program and view the contents by opening the file.While this method is valid, there is a way to do the same from the MS-DOS command level. The TYPE command tells DOS to display the contents of a text file.The steps taken below will display the contents of the Autoexec.bat file.The Basic CommandLooks Like This1. Type [CD\] and press the [Enter] Key - This step moves you to the root directory. (see Change Directory Command)2. Then Type [Type] - This is the command word.3. Press the [Space Bar] once - Pressing the space bar once inserts a space between the command and the file that you want to display.4. Type [AUTOEXEC.BAT] - AUTOEXEC.BAT is the name of the file you want to display the contents of.5. Press the [Enter key] - Pressing Enter confirms the command.You will see the contents of the file Autoexec.bat displayed on the screen. (You may have different commands in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.) The TYPE command only displays the contents of a file. You can not edit the file.Note: Some files (especially program files) contain characters that DOS cannot display. You may hear beeps and see strange characters onscreen if you display this type of file. Press CtrlC to stop the display.Copy and Rename the File - (Internal Command)The copy command can be used to copy one file to another file with a different name. (Make a backup copy of the file) The steps taken below will copy a file and rename the copy to another name.The Basic Command Looks Like This1. Type[CD\] and press the [Enter] Key - This step moves you to the root directory. (see Change Directory Command)2. Then Type [Copy] - This is the command word. The COPY command tells DOS to make a copy of the file.3. Press the[Space Bar] once. - Pressing the space bar once inserts a space between the command and the file that you want to copy.4. Type [AUTOEXEC.BAT] - AUTOEXEC.BAT is the name of the file you want to copy and rename.5. Press the[Space Bar] once6. Type [AUTOEXEC.old] - AUTOEXEC.OLD is the name you want to assign the copy of the file. This command makes a copy of the file AUTOEXEC.BAT and names the file AUTOEXEC.OLD.7. Press the [Enter key] - Pressing Enter confirms the command. You will see the message 1 file(s) copied appear on the screen. Now you have two versions of the same file. Each has a different name. To confirm that a copy has been made follow the next step.8. Type [DIR AUTOEXEC.*] and press [Enter]. This command tells DOS to display all files with the file name AUTOEXEC and with any extension. You should see both AUTOEXEC.BAT and AUTOEXEC.OLD.Copy a File To Another DirectoryThe copy command is also used to copy files from one directory to another. The steps taken below will copy a file to another directory area on the hard disk.The Basic Command Looks Like This1. Type [CD\] and press the [Enter] Key - This step moves you to the root directory. (see Change Directory Command)2. Then Type [Copy]- This is the command word. The COPY command tells DOS to make a copy of the file.3. Press the [Space Bar] once - Pressing the space bar once inserts a space between the command and the file that you want to copy.4. Type [Autoexec.old] - AUTOEXEC.old is the name of the file you want to copy.5. Press the [Space Bar] once6. Type [C:\DATA] - Typing C:\DATA tells DOS to place the copy in the directory C:\DATA. The file will have the same name.7. Press the [Enter key] - Pressing Enter confirms the command. You will see the message 1 file(s) copied appear on the screen. Now you have two versions of the same file: one in the [ROOT] directory and one in the [DATA] directory. Both files have the same name.Copy A Group of Files To Another DirectoryThe copy command is also used to copy a group of files from one directory to another. The steps taken below will copy a group of batch (Bat) files to another directory area on the hard disk.The Basic Command Looks Like This1. Type [CD\] and press the [Enter] KeyThis step moves you to the root directory. (see Change Directory Command)2. Then Type [Copy]This is the command word. The COPY command tells DOS to make a copy of the file.3. Press the [Space Bar] oncePressing the space bar once inserts a space between the command and the file that you want to copy.4. Type [*.bat]The *.bat is the group of files you want to copy to another directory. notice we are using on of the wild cards we spoke of before. By using the Asterix we are saying search for any combination of letters before the period and include them if the three letters after the period are [bat].5. Press the [Space Bar] once6. Type [C:\DATA]Typing C:\DATA tells DOS to place the files in the directory C:\DATA. Be sure to type a directory name. If the directory does not exist or is typed incorrectly, DOS adds all the files together and places them in another file.7. Press the [Enter keyPressing Enter confirms the command. You will see the message(#) file(s) copied appear on the screen. The (#) indicates the actual number of files copied.Note: Use these same steps to copy a group of files to another drive and directory. To do so, type the new drive name instead of C:\data. If you leave off the file name, DOS uses the same name for the files copied. As an example the command might look like this:Copy All Files to a Different DriveThe copy command is also used to copy all files from one directory to another drive. The steps taken below will copy all files in the data directory on the hard disk to another drive called A: Insert a formatted disk in drive A.The Basic Command Looks Like This1. From the Root directory type [CD\batch] and press the [Enter] Key This step moves you to the batch Sub-directory. (see Change Directory Command)2. Then Type [Copy] - This is the command word. The COPY command tells DOS to make a copy of a file.3. Press the [Space Bar] once - Pressing the space bar once inserts a space between the command and the file that you want to copy.4. Type [*.*] - The *.* is used to specify all files in the directory.5. Press the [Space Bar] once.6. Type [A:] - Typing A: tells DOS to copy all the files in the directory C:\batch to the A: drive.7. Press the [Enter key] - Pressing Enter confirms the command. You will see the message (#) file(s) copied appear on the screen. The (#) indicates the actual number of files copied. Now you have two versions of each file: one in the original directory (batch) and one on (drive A.)To verify the files have been copied:8. Type [A:] and press the [Enter] key. This step makes drive A: the current drive.9. Type [DIR] and press the[Enter] key - This step displays a directory listing of the contents of the disk in drive A: so that you can verify that the copies were made.Rename A FileLets assume that you want to change the name of the Autoexec.old file in the C:\data directory to a name such as (autoexec.cpy). You would use the RENAME command as described below.The Basic Command Looks Like This1. Type [CD\ data]and press the [Enter] Key - This step moves you to the data Sub-directory. (see Change Directory Command)2. Then Type [Ren] - This is the command word. The Rename command tells DOS to rename a file or directory.3. Press the [Space Bar]once - Pressing the space bar once inserts a space between the command and the file that you want to copy.4. Type [Autoexec.old] - Autoexec.old id the name of the file you want to rename.5. Press the [Space Bar] once.6. Type [Autoexec.cpy] - Autoexec.cpy is the new name for the file autoexec.old.7. Press the [Enter key]- Pressing Enter confirms the command. The name autoexec.old is now changed to autoexec.cpy.Delete a single FileLets assume that you want to delete the autoexec.cpy file from the C:\data directory You would use the Delete command as described below.The Basic Command Looks Like This1. Type [Del] - This is the command word. The DEL command tells DOS you want to delete a file.Note: In earlier versions of DOS (before Version 4.0) you could spell out the comand [Delete]2. Press the [Space Bar] once3. Type [Autoexec.cpy] - Autoexec.cpy is the name of the file you want to delete.4. Press the [Enter key] - Pressing Enter confirms the command. The name autoexec.cpy is now deleted from the C:\data sub-directory. To verify,5. Type [DIR] and press [Enter]. This step displays a directory listing of the subdirectory C:\data so that you can verify that the file has been deleted.To delete all files in a Subdirectory:6. Type the command Delete *.*The wild cards used here (*.*) specify all files. Be careful with this command, you can end up deleting file you will need later.7. Press the [Enter] key- Pressing Enter confirms the command. You will see the message All files in directory will be deleted! Are you sure (Y/N)? Answer yes by pressing the [Y] key if you want to delete all files.Undelete A File (External Command)If for some reason you accidentally delete the wrong file or directory, don't panic. There is something you can do to retrieve your files. With MS-DOS versions 5, 6, and 6.2 an Undelete command is included. When files are deleted on a floppy or hard disk only the first letter of the name is removed. the file is still on the disk until it is written over by another file.The Basic CommandLooks Like This1. From the root directory type [CD\ data] and press the [Enter] Key - This step moves you to the data Sub-directory. (see Change Directory Command)2. Type [UNDELETE] and press the [Enter] key. If you are using MS-DOS version 6.0 or greater, you will see a screen similar to the following:UNDELETE - Delete Protection FacilityCopyright (C) 1987-1993 Central Point Software Inc.All Rights ReservedDirectory: C:\dataFile Specification: *.*Delete sentry not foundDeletion tracking file not foundMS-DOS directories contain [#} deleted files:Of Those Files [#] Files May Be RecoveredUsing the MS-DOS Directory Method:?utoexec.cpy 2100 11-13-95 11:46a ...A Undelete (Y/N)?[#] = Number of Files3. The blue line shows the first deleted file that MS-DOS found. The file name, extension, size, date, and time are listed. The first character of the file name is replaced with a question mark.4. Press the [Enter] Key - The next line will appear on the screen. It will sayPlease type the First Character of the file ?utoexec.cpy :5. At this point type an [a] and press the [enter] key. - your file will be undeleted. Press the [esc] key at any time to stop the undelete program.Note: If you don't know the first letter of the file, assign any letter. Then after you see what the file contains, use the RENAME command to rename the file.CAUTION: Once you delete a file from your disk, you may not be able retrieve it. Although the UNDELETE command can recover deleted files, it can do so with certainty only if no other files have been created or changed on the disk. If you accidentally delete a file that you want to keep, stop what you are doing and immediately use the UNDELETE command to retrieve the file.MS-DOS Undelete ProtectionMSDOS provides three levels of protection against accidental file deletionDelete Sentry - Provides the highest level of protection. Delete Sentry requires a small amount of memory and disk space.The UNDELETE Command moves the file from its current location to the SENTRY directory without changing the record of the file's location in the file allocation table (FAT). If you undelete the file, MSDOS moves the file back to its original location.Delete Tracker - The next level of protection is Delete Tracker, which requires the same amount of memory as Delete Sentry, but minimal disk space. It uses a hidden file named PCTRACKER.DEL to record the location of deleted files.When you delete a file, MSDOS changes the file allocation table (FAT) to indicate that the location of the file is now available for another file.You can recover the deleted file provided that another file has not been placed in that location. If another file has been placed there, you may be able to partially recover the deleted file.Standard - The lowest level of protection, standard, requires neither memory nor disk space, but still allows you to recover deleted files, provided that their location on the disk has not been taken by other files. The standard level of protection is automatically available when you switch on your computer.Of the three levels of guarding against accidental file deletion, it provides the lowest level of protection. However, it does not require you to load a memoryresident program. It also has the advantage of requiring neither memory nor disk space.CAUTION:UNDELETE cannot restore a directory that has been removed, and it cannot retrieve a file if you have removed the directory that contained the file.If the directory was an immediate subdirectory of the root directory, you may be able to retrieve the directory and its files if you first use the UNFORMAT command to restore the directory and then use UNDELETE to retrieve the files.You must use caution because you can lose data if you use UNFORMAT incorrectly.Usually, UNFORMAT can restore only immediate sub-directories of the root directory. However, when you use UNFORMAT to recover an accidentally formatted disk, UNFORMAT recovers all rootlevel files and subdirectory names.Display a Volume LabelThere are times when you might need to know what the volume label is on the disk you are working on.The Basic Command Looks Like This1. Type [VOL]. VOL is the volume command. Volume is another name for drive.2. Press the [ Enter.] key. Pressing Enter confirms the command. You see the volume label(which is the volume name) assigned to the disk. You also see the volume serial number.Change The Volume Label1. From the root directory type [LABEL]. LABEL is the label command. You use this command to change the volume label for the disk.2. Press the [Enter] key. Pressing Enter confirms the command. You see the volume label (which is the name) currently assigned to the disk and the volume serial number. You also see the prompt Volume label (11 characters, ENTER for none)?3. Type [new name]. where [new name] is the new volume label you want to use.4. Press the [Enter] key. Pressing Enter confirms the new volume label.5. Type [VOL] and press [Enter]key. This step verifies that the volume label has been changed. You see the volume label listed as[ new name.]CHECK THE DOS VERSION1. Type [VER]. VER is the version command. You use this command to display the current DOS version.2. Press [Enter]. Pressing Enter confirms the command. You see the current DOS version number. The After screen shows the current version as MSDOS Version 6.20. Your version will be different from the one that appears in the After screen if you use a different DOS version.CHECK DISK SPACE AND MEMORY1. Type [CHKDSK]. CHKDSK is the check disk command. You use this command to display some basic information about the disk.2. Press [Enter]. Pressing Enter confirms the command. DOS checks the disk and displays information in three sections. The first section displays the following information:total disk space (in bytes)number of hidden files (and number of bytes)number of directories (and number of bytes)number of user files (and number of bytes)number of bad sectors if any (in bytes)number of bytes available on diskRemember that about 1 million bytes equals one megabyte (M). So if the display shows 1998848, that number would equal about 2M.The middle section displays information about how space is allocated (assigned).The last section displays the following information about memory: total bytes memory total bytes free.Remember that roughly 1 thousand bytes equals one kilobyte (K). So if the display shows 655360, that number would equal about 640K.SET THE DATE1. Type [DATE]. DATE is the command that you use to set the date.2. Press [Enter]. Pressing Enter confirms the command. You see the prompt Current date is, followed by the current date. You also see the prompt Enter new date (mmddyy):3. Type [ 090494]. This is the new date you want to enter.4. Press [Enter]. Pressing Enter confirms the new date.SET THE TIME1. Type [TIME]. TIME is the command that you use to set and display the time.2. Press [Enter]. Pressing Enter confirms the command. You see the prompt Current time is, followed by the current time. You also see the prompt Enter new time:3. Type [16:00:00]. This is the new time you want to set.4. Press [Enter]. Pressing Enter confirms the new time.SET THE PATH1. Type [PATH]. PATH is the command that you use to tell DOS which directories it should search to find programs. If a directory is listed in the PATH, you don't have to change to that directory to use a command or start a program.2. Press the [space bar] once. Pressing the space bar once inserts a space between the command and the path statement.3. Type [C:\DOS]. DOS is the directory that contains all the DOS program files. Your DOS directory might be named differently. If so, type that directory name.4. Press [Enter]. Pressing Enter confirms the path.5. Type [PATH] and press [Enter]. This step displays the new path. Notice that if you set the path this way, the new path overrides the path in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file. When you restart the computer, however, the AUTOEXEC.BAT file overrides the path.Note: To include more than one directory in the path, separate the directories by a semicolonfor example, C:\DOS;C:\WORD. Don't include a space between directory names.CHECK MEMORY INFORMATION1. Type [MEM]. MEM is the command to check memory information.2. Press [Enter]. This step executes the command. Onscreen you see the total amount of memory your computer has, the amount that is used, and the amount that is free.Different types of memory are reported: conventional, upper, adapter RAM/ROM, extended, and expanded. This information might come in handy if you are calling for support or if a program requires a certain amount of memory.The DIR CommandThe Command "DIR" is the directory command. It tells DOS to list all the files in the current directory. In this example, the current directory is the root (or main directory). The Basic Command Looks Like ThisDIRTo use the directory command:1. Type DIR - At The C:/> Prompt- type [DIR].2. Press Enter. Pressing Enter confirms the command. You will see a list of the files and directories in the root directory. (Your list will vary, depending on the files and directories you have created. You may not be able to see all of the directories on your screen at the same time.) Notice that the following information appears on-screen:File name - The root of the file name (up to eight characters) appears first.Extension - The extension is listed in the second column.File Size - The next column lists the size of the file. The size is measured in bytes. One byte equals about one character. If the entry is a directory, nothing is listed.Directory - If the entry is a directory, you seein the next column.Date - The next column displays the date when the file was created or last modified.Time - The final column displays the time when the file was created or modified.Note: The two lines at the end of the directory listing display the number of files, bytes taken, and bytes free (disk space remaining).The DOS prompt appears at the bottom of the listing so that you can type the next command.

The Type CommandCopy and Rename a FileCopy a File to Another DirectoryCopy a File to Another DriveCopy Groups to Another DirectoryCopy All Files to Another DriveCheck System MemorySet the DOS PathCheck the DOS VersionSet the System DateSet the System TimeRename a FileDelete a FileUndelete a FileUndelete ProtectionDisplay a Volume LableChange a Volume LabelCheck Disk SpaceThe Directory Command

Sheet3MS-DOS System BasicsMS/DOS was originally used by the first IBM PC. Over the years, it evolved into the current version 7 packaged with Windows 95/98. For many years MS/DOS was the primary operating system for Intel based microprocessors.DOS and BIOS controlled the entire PC. It resided in RAM memory, along with the various device drivers. DOS and BIOS operate hand-in-hand in controlling the PC. In this discussion, I will try to keep the discussion at the newest or highest version of DOS (MS-DOS 6.22) with which I am familiar.When you first turn on the computer (called "booting" the computer), MS-DOS is loaded or started. After this boot up you usually see a blank screen with a small prompt (usually "C:\>"). To people who have not used computers before, this prompt can be intimidating--it offers no clue on what to do next. What's behind that blank screen?The answer of course is a Disk Operating System (DOS) is in control your computer. This operating system provides a way to communicate with your computer. It also controls the organization of files and programs on your hard and floppy disks.In this section we will explore disk organization and some of the basic commands used to communicate with the MS/DOS operating system.Hard Disk OrganizationTo keep track of the files, operating systems such as MS-DOS, UNIX, and OS-2 require that files be organized into directories. While each of these systems required directories, the information recorded in each file entry is not the same. In this chapter we will discuss only the way MS-DOS creates file entries.When you copy or create a file or install a program on the hard disk in a MS-DOS system, a File Allocation Table (FAT) is created on the hard disk. This FAT contains a listing of what is stored on your disk. In the directory entry for each file, DOS records:The file name.The disk location (sector number).The file size in bytes The date the file was last changed.The time the file was last changed.Directory OrganizationThink about how you store letters in your office. In your office, you may have a filing cabinet.In that filing cabinet, you probably have folders that pertain to different projects, employees, organizations, or some other grouping--maybe logical, maybe not.Within each folder you have articles, letters, diagrams, reports--anything that you want to save. This storage method carries over to Microsoft's MS-DOS and Windows 95/98 Disk Operating Systems (DOS).With Microsoft's DOS, a disk is like a filing cabinet. Within that disk, you have directories or areas set aside for certain files such as memos, articles, or diagrams. The same type items that you store in a folder are stored in electronic form in a file. That file is then stored in a directory.Root Directory and the PathThe main directory is called the root directory. All other directories are branches of this directory, much like the roots of a tree. Directories can contain files, programs, or other directories. The root directory is designated by a backslash (\).To get to a particular file, you must trace the path from the root directory to the directory that the file is located in. The path is the list of directories, starting with the root.Each directory name is separated by a backslash (\). For example, the path [C:>\wp\reports] gives you access to the directories as follows:Start at drive C:\Go from the root directory (\) to the [ WP] directoryGo from the [WP] directory to the [REPORTS] directory.When we go to a directory it is the same as opening a folder in a file drawer.Note: The paths for each of these directories would look like the following:C:\ ----------------------------- Root DirectoryC:\dos\ ----------------------- DOS subdirectory (1 level)C:\Lotus\ --------------------- Lotus Subdirectory (1 Level)C:\wp\ ------------------------- Word Perfect Subdirectory (1 level)C:\wp\Report ---------------- Report Subdirectory (2 levels)Drive IdentificationMicrosoft's Disk Operating Systems identify each drive (including the hard disk) by a letter. For example the first diskette drive on any system is always drive [A:] and the second is always drive [B:], etc. On some systems drive "A" is a 3-1/2 inch floppy drive. On other systems it can be a 5-1/4 floppy drive.The first logical or physical hard disk is always identified as [C:].To specify the disk drive in a path statement you always give the drive letter followed by a colon.Examples: For each hard disk or Floppy disk, the top level directory is always called the [ROOT] directory.Sub-directories - Since one directory can contain entries for other directories, the subordinate directories can be referred to as subdirectories.These subdirectories are just like any other directory; they're just subordinate to a higher-level directory.As a result, subdirectories can also be referred to as directories.This is the same as a letter in a file is a subordinate to the higher level file folderManaging Directories and FilesIn earlier versions of MS/DOS, when the command prompt was displayed in its standard form, (C:\>), it told you what the default drive is, but but not the current directory. Modern versions of MS/DOS shipped with Windows 95/98 will indicate both the drive and directory you are in.If you are working with an older version of MS/DOS and want to change the form of the prompt so it does tell you what the current directory is, use the PROMPT command as follows:After the command is executed, the prompt is changed to show the current directory for the drive you are logged into. If you are at the root directory of the C: drive your prompt would look like this:C:\>Now if you changed the current directory to the DOS directory, the prompt would look like this:C:\DOS>The enhanced form of the prompt stays in effect until you turn your PC off. A prompt that tells the current directory makes it easier to use the other DOS commands.You should always set your prompt to this form.You don't have to do this each time you start your PC. Instead, you can put a PROMPT command in your autoexec.bat file.File NamesWhenever you save a new file on a hard disk or a diskette, whether you use DOS or an application program, you need to be able to create a valid file name.A file name is separated into two parts that are separated by a period. The part that comes before the period is required. The part after the period is optional and is called the extension.The MS/DOS system uses the 8.3 file naming convention. Each file must have a unique or different name. An entire file name is made up of the file name (up to eight characters) and the extension (optional three characters).The file name and extension are separated by a period. You cannot use these characters in a file name:Valid File Names:As and example: [Report.doc] is a valid file name. [Report] is the file name, and [doc] is the extension. The file name should tell you what the file contains; the extension often tells you the type of file.Some programs such as Lotus Freelance and Lotus 123, assign an extension automatically. As an example:Invalid File Names:[MY NOTES] is not a valid file name because a file name cannot contain spaces.(except in Windows 95/98) If you want to include a space in a file name, however, you can use the underline character instead [MY_NOTES]. [Basicdosclass.DOC] also is not a valid file name because it contains too many characters.Wild CardsWhen you want to work with a group of files, you can use wild cards. There are two types of wild cards: an asterisk and a question mark.The AsteriskAn asterisk wild card [*] matches any characters. The most common use of this wild card is [*.*]. You might hear other computer users describe this wild card as star-dot-star.This file spec matches all files; that is, the file can have any root name and any extension. (A file spec is a combination of the path, file name, and extension.)The file spec *.TAT specifies files with any root name (*.) and the extension TAT. The following files would be included in this group:The following files would not be included (because they have a different extension):The Question markwild card [?] matches any single character. For instance, the file spec [?SALES.DOC] includes all files that start with any character; the remaining letters must be [SALES], and the file must have the extension [DOC]. The following files would be included in this group:The following files would not be included:Using Wild Cards -You can use wild cards in different combinations to control which files are included in a group. Suppose, for example, that you are writing a book that has eight chapters.The file for each chapter is named [CHAP], followed by the chapter number, a period, and the file extension [DOC].When you want to copy all the files [CHAP1.DOC] through [CHAP8.DOC] , you can use a file spec such as:This file spec uses the [?] wild card and tells DOS to include every file named [CHAP] that is followed by one character and has a DOC extension.Remember that each ? wild card represents one alphabetical character. If, however, your book is 15 chapters long, and the files are named CHAP through CHAP15.DOC, you need to use a different wild card called the asterisk.To copy all the files for this book, you can use a file spec such as: CHAP*.DOCThis file spec tells DOS to include every file named CHAP, followed by any number of characters, with a DOC extension. Remember that the (*) wild card represents any number of characters.Special FilesYour computer contains some special files that you should understand their purposeCommand.Com - To process commands, you must have a program file called COMMAND.COM. This is a special DOS file. When you install DOS this file is copied to the hard drive. Once DOS is booted this program is loaded into memory and translates your commands typed in near-english into a language the computer understands.Autoexec.bat - When you first start DOS, it looks for a file called AUTOEXEC.BAT. This file must be stored in the root directory. When DOS starts and finds the file, it executes the file. This file may include commands that control different settings. For example, you might include a command that tells DOS where your programs are located. This command is called a path command.The following shows a simple AUTOEXEC.BAT file:This file changes your prompt (C:\>) so that it displays the current subdirectory. For example, if you are in the directory DATA, which is a subdirectory of C:\WP, you would see: C:\WP\DATA>;The PATH command tells DOS to look in the DOS and WP directories for program files.Config.sys - Another special file that DOS uses to start is CONFIG.SYS, a configuration file. Some applications require special commands. These commands are contained in the CONFIG.SYS file. The following shows a simple CONFIG.SYS file:These settings control how DOS uses files. Some programs require that these are set to a certain value. When dealing with these files, keep these rules in mind:Remember - Don't delete any of the following:COMMAND.COMAUTOEXEC.BATCONFIG.SYSDon't try to change the contents of COMMAND.COM.As you add applications to the computer, the program manual might tell you to make changes to the AUTOEXEC.BAT file or the CONFIG.SYS file. You must use a special text editor to modify these files. Be careful when making any changes. You should understand each command in the file before changing anything.The MS-DOS Command PromptAs DOS takes control of the system, it may display several messages on the monitor. It may also ask you to enter the correct date and time. Eventually, DOS will display the command prompt. You have to be at the DOS prompt before you can try any of the DOS commands.In its standard form, the prompt looks like this:This prompt just displays the default driveHowever, some PCs are set up so the prompt displays the current directory along with the default drive in this form the prompt will look like:No matter what the prompt looks like, it still means the DOS command processor is waiting for your command.Entering and Correcting a MS-DOS CommandTo enter a DOS command, you type in the command at the command prompt and press the Enter/Return key.That's all there is to it! With few exceptions, DOS does not care whether you use upper- or lower-case letters in commands.Subdirectory Shortcuts -The dot-dot (..) file in every subdirectory is used by DOS to support linkage to the subdirectory's parent directory.That is why the root directory has no dot-dot file; the root has no parent. You can use the dot-dot file as a shortcut to change to the parent of the subdirectory on which you are currently logged.By changing to the dot-dot subdirectory, you automatically change to the parent of the current subdirectory without needing to remember its name.