The Run command is a quick way to open programs, files, folders, or Internet resource that facilitates interaction with the computer and saves time and effort when working with Windows and its applications.
Always present in Microsoft operating systems, Windows 7 and Vista included it in the same search box but also allowed add to the Start menu. In Windows 8.1 and Windows 10 it is included in the user menu of Windows 10 (right-click on the Start button) or earlier versions, directly by the shortcut “Windows + R”.
From there, its use is as simple as typing the name and press enter.
Some of the most useful programs that can be accessed are:
- cmd: Open the command prompt
- Explorer: Open Windows Explorer
- msconfig: Open the system configurator
- regedit: Open the registry editor.
It can also be used to run various consoles that facilitate customization and maintenance of Windows. For example:
- devmgmt.msc: Configure devices and hardware
- diskmgmt.msc: Manage disk volumes and create partitions
- perfmon.msc: Access to the system performance monitor
- services.msc: Configure the system services
The run command can also be used in combination with other Windows 10 environment variables (and earlier) to open specific locations:
- %HomePath%: Access the user directory
- %ProgramFiles%: Go to Program Files directory
- %WinDir%: Go to the Windows directory
- %AppData%: Open the application data directory