Windows Run Commands

Essential Windows Run Commands for IT Support / MSP

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Windows Run commands are essential tools for any MSP technician, providing rapid access to system utilities without navigating through multiple menus. These shortcuts can significantly improve your efficiency when troubleshooting client systems or performing routine maintenance tasks.

Contents hide
1 Essential Windows Run Commands Reference Table
2 System Diagnostics and Information
3 System Configuration and Management
4 Network and Remote Access Tools
5 Registry and Advanced System Tools
6 Disk and Storage Management
7 Quick Access Commands

Essential Windows Run Commands Reference Table

CommandFunction
msconfigSystem Configuration utility
msinfo32System Information viewer
resmonResource Monitor
cmdCommand Prompt
powershellWindows PowerShell
taskmgrTask Manager
services.mscServices management console
eventvwr.mscEvent Viewer
compmgmt.mscComputer Management
regeditRegistry Editor
gpedit.mscLocal Group Policy Editor
diskmgmt.mscDisk Management
devmgmt.mscDevice Manager
cleanmgrDisk Cleanup utility
dxdiagDirectX Diagnostic Tool
mstscRemote Desktop Connection
netplwizUser Accounts management
ncpa.cplNetwork Connections
sysdm.cplSystem Properties
appwiz.cplPrograms and Features
firewall.cplWindows Defender Firewall
powercfg.cplPower Options
main.cplMouse Properties
timedate.cplDate and Time Properties
intl.cplRegional Settings
controlControl Panel
winverWindows version information
mdschedWindows Memory Diagnostic
perfmonPerformance Monitor
snippingtoolSnipping Tool
oskOn-Screen Keyboard
magnifyMagnifier
calcCalculator
notepadNotepad
%temp%Temporary files folder

System Diagnostics and Information

The msinfo32 command opens the System Information utility, which provides comprehensive details about hardware specifications, installed software, and system configuration. This tool is particularly valuable when you need to quickly assess a client’s system capabilities or verify hardware compatibility before software installations.

resmon launches the Resource Monitor, offering real-time insights into CPU, memory, disk, and network usage. This command proves essential when diagnosing performance issues, as it shows which processes are consuming system resources and can help identify bottlenecks affecting system performance.

For memory-related issues, mdsched initiates the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool. This utility schedules a memory test on the next system restart, helping identify faulty RAM modules that could be causing system instability or crashes.

System Configuration and Management

msconfig provides access to the System Configuration utility, where you can manage startup programs, boot options, and system services. This tool is crucial for troubleshooting startup issues and optimising system boot times by disabling unnecessary startup applications.

The services.msc command opens the Services management console, allowing you to start, stop, restart, and configure Windows services. This is particularly useful when troubleshooting service-related issues or configuring services for specific business requirements.

gpedit.msc launches the Local Group Policy Editor, which enables you to configure advanced system settings and security policies. This tool is essential for implementing security configurations and system restrictions across client environments.

Network and Remote Access Tools

mstsc opens the Remote Desktop Connection client, enabling you to connect to remote systems for support purposes. This command is fundamental for MSP operations, allowing technicians to provide remote assistance without requiring third-party software.

ncpa.cpl provides direct access to Network Connections, where you can configure network adapters, view connection status, and troubleshoot network connectivity issues. This shortcut eliminates the need to navigate through multiple Control Panel screens when addressing network problems.

Registry and Advanced System Tools

regedit opens the Registry Editor, providing access to the Windows registry database. Whilst this tool requires careful handling, it’s essential for advanced troubleshooting and system modifications that cannot be accomplished through standard interfaces.

eventvwr.msc launches the Event Viewer, which displays system, application, and security logs. This tool is invaluable for diagnosing system issues, as it provides detailed error messages and warnings that can guide your troubleshooting efforts.

Disk and Storage Management

diskmgmt.msc opens Disk Management, where you can partition drives, assign drive letters, and manage storage volumes. This utility is essential for storage configuration tasks and troubleshooting disk-related issues.

cleanmgr launches the Disk Cleanup utility, which helps free up disk space by removing temporary files, system cache, and other unnecessary data. Regular use of this tool can help maintain system performance and prevent storage-related issues.

Quick Access Commands

Several commands provide rapid access to frequently used utilities. taskmgr opens Task Manager for process management and performance monitoring. cmd and powershell provide command-line access for advanced system administration tasks. The %temp% command opens the temporary files folder, useful for clearing cache files and troubleshooting application issues.

These Run commands form the foundation of efficient Windows system administration, enabling MSP technicians to quickly access the tools needed for diagnosis, configuration, and maintenance tasks. Mastering these shortcuts will significantly improve your productivity when managing client systems and resolving technical issues.

Paul MacMillan
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