What is CMDKEY Windows command?

The Windows cmdkey command allows users to manage stored credentials, including viewing, adding, and removing saved credentials for resources like servers or websites. By using cmdkey in the command prompt, users can update their credentials securely and efficiently. This command is especially useful for IT professionals and system administrators who need to access various network resources regularly. By understanding how to use the cmdkey command effectively, users can simplify the process of managing their credentials and ensure secure access to important resources.

CMDKEY Syntax:

cmdkey [{/add | /generic}:targetname {/smartcard | /user:username {/pass{:password} | /save{:state}}} | /delete:targetname | /list: {targetname | *} | /ras | /? | /?:{targetname | *}]

CMDKEY Options:

Option	Description
/add	Adds a user name and password for the target.
/generic	Adds a generic credential for the target system.
/smartcard	Specifies that the credentials are on a smart card.
/user:username	Specifies the user name, as in domain\user or user@domain.
/pass{:password }	Specifies the password for the user.
/save{:state }	Specifies to save the password.
/delete:targetname	Deletes a stored credential for the target.
/list:{targetname	*}
/ras	Creates a credential for use with RAS.
/?	Displays help at the command prompt.
/?:{targetname	*}

Caution

Exercise caution when using the cmdkey command as it involves storing sensitive information such as passwords. Make sure to keep your stored credentials secure and be aware of potential security risks.

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
targetname	Specifies the name of the target computer or service.
username	Specifies the username for the target credential.
password	Specifies the password for the target credential.
state	Specifies the state of saving the password.
*	Specifies all target credentials to be listed or deleted.

CMDKEY Command Usage Examples:

Add a Generic Windows Credential for a Specific Target

cmdkey /add:targetname /user:username /pass:password

Adds a generic Windows credential for a specific target using the CMDKEY command.

List Stored Credentials

cmdkey /list

Displays a list of stored credentials on the system using the CMDKEY command.

Remove a Stored Credential for a Specific Target

cmdkey /delete:targetname

Removes a stored credential for a specific target from the system using the CMDKEY command.

Add a Domain Credential

cmdkey /add:targetname /user:username /pass:password /domain:domainname

Adds a domain credential for a specific target using the CMDKEY command.

Remove All Stored Credentials

cmdkey /delete /ras

Removes all stored credentials related to Remote Access Services (RAS) using the CMDKEY command.

Tip

Make sure to run CMD as an administrator when using the cmdkey command to avoid any permission issues.

How do I use cmdkey in CMD?

To use the cmdkey command in CMD, execute the following command:

cmdkey /add:server01 /user:username /pass:password

What is the purpose of the cmdkey command in CMD?

The cmdkey command in CMD is used to manage stored credentials in Windows, such as adding, removing, or listing stored credentials.

cmdkey /list

How can I add a credential with cmdkey in CMD?

You can add a credential using the cmdkey command in CMD by specifying the target server, username, and password.

cmdkey /add:server01 /user:username /pass:password

How do I remove a stored credential with cmdkey in CMD?

To remove a stored credential using the cmdkey command in CMD, specify the target server you want to remove the credentials for.

cmdkey /delete:server01

Can I list all the stored credentials using cmdkey in CMD?

Yes, you can list all the stored credentials in CMD by executing the following command:

cmdkey /list

How can I update a stored password with cmdkey in CMD?

To update a stored password using the cmdkey command in CMD, you can simply add the new password for the existing credential.

cmdkey /add:server01 /user:username /pass:newpassword

Is it possible to store credentials for a remote server using cmdkey in CMD?

Yes, you can store credentials for a remote server using the cmdkey command in CMD by specifying the server name, username, and password.

cmdkey /add:server01 /user:username /pass:password

How do I clear all stored credentials with cmdkey in CMD?

To clear all stored credentials using the cmdkey command in CMD, you can use the following command:

cmdkey /clear

Applications of the CMDKEY Command

• Storing credentials for network resources
• Managing saved credentials for various services and applications
• Automating credential management tasks
• Simplifying authentication processes
• Securing access to sensitive resources