Because it was possible to access system files, admins were able to troubleshoot different types of errors and fix corrupt files. CMD was also widely used to view and manage directory files, both user and system. Microsoft later released Command Prompt officially with Windows NT.Ĭommand Prompt was mostly used by system admins who perform administrative tasks like format and managing disk partitions. That’s because it was widely used to run DOS commands as the directory (DIR) commands or test internet speed. What Is Command PromptĬommand Prompt was launched as with Windows 95 and 98. But at its heart, there are subtle differences between the three that make them different. So how do these three utility tools differ? Why do we even need three when one can suffice or is one really enough? Command Prompt vs PowerShell vs Windows TerminalĪt its heart, they are all command-line shell and scripting language designed to troubleshoot errors, run batch commands, manage system maintenance tasks. And then Windows Terminal which was released in 2019 for Windows 10 and later 11. Then came the PowerShell which made its debut in 2006 in Windows XP. There is the OG that is the Command Prompt. Now, Windows ships with not one or two but three tools.

One of the oldest apps and command-line tools that shipped with the Windows operating system is the Command Prompt, commonly called CMD.

Basic windows terminal commands