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All About PATH Windows command

The Windows path command is a crucial tool for setting environment variables to specify the locations of executable files. By adjusting the PATH variable, users can access applications and scripts from any directory within the command prompt. This eliminates the need to input the full file path each time a program needs to be executed, simplifying the workflow and enhancing productivity. The PATH command allows users to customize their system settings, streamline operations, and efficiently manage software dependencies.

PATH Syntax:

Terminal window
path [filename]

Options:

OptionDescription
Display the current directory

Parameters:

ParameterDescription
filenameSpecifies the file to display

PATH CMD Examples:

Change Directory

Terminal window
cd C:\Users\Documents

Changes the current working directory to “C:\Users\Documents”.

List Contents of a Directory

Terminal window
dir

Lists the contents of the current working directory.

Create a New Directory

Terminal window
mkdir NewFolder

Creates a new directory named “NewFolder” in the current working directory.

Delete a File

Terminal window
del Example.txt

Deletes the file named “Example.txt” from the current working directory.

Copy a File

Terminal window
copy File1.txt C:\Backup

Copies the file “File1.txt” to the “C:\Backup” directory.

Rename a Directory

Terminal window
ren OldFolder NewFolder

Renames the directory “OldFolder” to “NewFolder”.

How do I use path in Windows?

To use the path command in Windows, execute the following command:

Terminal window
path --option <value>

How can I add a directory to the PATH in Windows CMD?

To add a directory to the PATH in Windows CMD, use the following command:

Terminal window
setx PATH "%PATH%;C:\new\directory" /m

How do I view the current PATH in Windows?

To view the current PATH in Windows, run the following command:

Terminal window
echo %PATH%

How can I remove a directory from the PATH in Windows CMD?

To remove a directory from the PATH in Windows CMD, use the following command:

Terminal window
setx PATH "%PATH:;C:\unwanted\directory=%" /m

How do I clear the PATH in Windows CMD?

To clear the PATH in Windows CMD, execute the following command:

Terminal window
setx PATH "" /m

How can I permanently set the PATH in Windows CMD?

To permanently set the PATH in Windows CMD, use the following command:

Terminal window
setx PATH "%PATH%;C:\new\path" /m

How do I check if a directory is in the PATH in Windows CMD?

To check if a directory is in the PATH in Windows CMD, run the following command:

Terminal window
echo %PATH% | findstr /C:"C:\desired\directory" >nul && echo Found || echo Not found

Applications of the PATH Command

  • Display the current list of directories in the PATH variable: path
  • Add a directory to the PATH variable: path C:\newdirectory
  • Remove a directory from the PATH variable: path %PATH:;C:\deletedirectory=%
  • Restore the PATH variable to its default value: path %SystemRoot%\system32;%SystemRoot%;%SystemRoot%\System32\Wbem