Windows Terminal is a powerful tool that integrates Command Prompt, PowerShell, and Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) into one convenient interface. While graphical interfaces are easier, the command-line interface (CLI) provides power users and developers with enhanced control, efficiency, and automation capabilities. Below, we’ll walk through what Windows Terminal is, how to use it, and some key commands that can make your life easier.

What is Windows Terminal?

Windows Terminal is a modern, feature-packed command-line interface (CLI) developed by Microsoft. It consolidates various command-line tools, including CMD, PowerShell, and WSL, into a single window with support for tabs, panes, and custom profiles.

Why use Windows Terminal?

  • Access multiple command-line tools in one window.
  • Customize the look and behavior to suit your workflow.
  • Improve multitasking with multiple tabs and split panes.
  • Get faster, more efficient access to system tasks.

How to Open Windows Terminal

Getting started with Windows Terminal is simple:

  • Search for Terminal in the Start Menu.
  • Right-click on the icon and select Run as administrator to unlock all features.

Once you have Windows Terminal open, these commands can simplify many common tasks and provide deeper insights into your system.

1. Shut Down Your Computer with a Timer

shutdown /s /t 600

Want to schedule a shutdown? This command shuts down your computer after 600 seconds (10 minutes). Adjust the time as needed. For troubleshooting, use:

shutdown -r -o

This command restarts the computer and launches the Advanced Start Option menu.

READ
Russian Hacker Charged in U.S. for Orchestrating Widespread Ransomware Attacks

2. View a Visual Representation of Folders

tree

The tree command gives you a visual breakdown of all folders and subfolders on your drive. You can narrow it down by specifying a path:

tree C:\Programs

Add the /f flag to include files in the output as well.

3. Flush Your DNS to Troubleshoot Network Issues

ipconfig /flushdns

This command resets the connection between your computer and websites by refreshing the DNS cache. To change your computer’s IP address, use:

ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew

This can help resolve connection issues between your computer and your router.

4. Get Detailed System Information

systeminfo

This command provides comprehensive details about your system, including your Windows version, CPU specs, RAM, network connections, and even your last boot time. It’s a goldmine for tech-savvy users or when diagnosing issues.

5. Check and Fix Disk Errors

chkdsk /r

The chkdsk command checks your hard drive for errors and attempts to fix them. The /r flag tells the system to recover any data from bad sectors. This is a go-to command for IT technicians facing issues with file access or system boot.

Buy Me A Coffee

6. See All Running Tasks

tasklist

This is the CLI equivalent of Task Manager. You can view all running tasks and see which ones are consuming the most resources. To kill a troublesome app, use:

taskkill /pid <PID number> /f

Replace <PID number> with the process ID from tasklist.

7. Analyze Your Computer’s Energy States

powercfg /a

This command shows all available sleep states (like hibernate or fast startup). For laptops, generate a detailed battery report with:

powercfg /batteryreport

The report is saved in your default folder, providing key insights into battery health and energy efficiency.

READ
Microsoft Enhances Paint and Photos with AI-Powered Editing Tools for Generative Fill, Erase, and Upscaling

8. Verify Windows System Integrity

sfc /scannow

When your system is acting up, use sfc /scannow to scan and repair corrupted system files. This is a key troubleshooting step if you’re encountering persistent bugs or crashes.

9. View Active Network Connections

netstat

Running netstat on its own shows all devices connected to your computer. Add the -b flag to see which apps are actively communicating over the network, which can help identify apps using too much bandwidth:

netstat -b

CMD vs. Windows Terminal: What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Use?

If you’ve ever delved into the command line on Windows, you’re probably familiar with Command Prompt (CMD), the original CLI that traces its roots back to MS-DOS. However, Windows Terminal, introduced by Microsoft in 2019, is a more modern tool that offers far greater functionality and customization. In this post, we’ll explore the differences between CMD and Windows Terminal, and help you decide which one is right for your tasks.

1. Overview of CMD and Windows Terminal

CMD (Command Prompt)

CMD is the traditional command-line interface that has been part of Windows since the early days of MS-DOS. It’s used for running basic commands, batch scripts, and troubleshooting various system operations. While it’s functional, CMD is somewhat outdated by modern standards, offering limited features.

  • Main purpose: Simple command-line tasks (e.g., file management, batch scripting).
  • Interface: Single tab, limited customization.
  • Tools supported: Command Prompt only.
READ
Russian Hacker Charged in U.S. for Orchestrating Widespread Ransomware Attacks

Windows Terminal

Windows Terminal is a modern, advanced terminal application that acts as a hub for multiple command-line environments, including CMD, PowerShell, and Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). It provides an updated, customizable interface with powerful features that significantly improve productivity.

  • Main purpose: Unified terminal experience with support for multiple shells.
  • Interface: Multiple tabs and panes, highly customizable themes, fonts, and layouts.
  • Tools supported: CMD, PowerShell, WSL, Azure Cloud Shell, and more.

Here’s a comparison table between CMD (Command Prompt) and Windows Terminal to help you quickly understand the key differences:

Windows Terminal vs PowerShell

Windows Terminal is a modern command-line interface designed to host multiple shells like CMD, PowerShell, and WSL in a single, customizable window. Where PowerShell is a powerful command-line shell and scripting language designed for automating administrative tasks and managing systems.

READ
Microsoft Enhances Paint and Photos with AI-Powered Editing Tools for Generative Fill, Erase, and Upscaling

Here’s a comparison table between Windows Terminal and PowerShell to highlight their key differences:

Summary:

  • Windows Terminal is a host for multiple command-line environments, providing a unified interface and multitasking capabilities.
  • PowerShell is a powerful shell and scripting language for automating administrative tasks and system management.

In short, Windows Terminal is an interface that can run PowerShell alongside other shells, whereas PowerShell is a specialized tool for system automation and configuration.

READ
Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2024: What's the Difference?

Conclusion

Windows Terminal is an essential tool for anyone looking to unlock the full potential of their Windows system. Whether you’re managing tasks, troubleshooting issues, or running developer tools, this modern CLI tool puts you in the driver’s seat with more control and flexibility than ever before.

By mastering these commands, you’ll not only enhance your productivity but also gain a deeper understanding of how your system works — all in a sleek, customizable interface.