COMMAND
In computing, COMMAND refers to a command-line interpreter for DOS, OS/2, and Windows operating systems. Here is detailed information about COMMAND:
History and Development
The COMMAND interpreter was initially developed by Microsoft for MS-DOS, which was first released in 1981. It provided a text-based interface for users to interact with the operating system through commands entered via a keyboard. This interpreter was:
- Introduced with MS-DOS version 1.0.
- Also used in PC-DOS, which was the version of DOS supplied by IBM with their personal computers.
- Included in OS/2 for compatibility with DOS applications.
- Continued to be part of Windows operating systems up until Windows 98, where it was replaced by CMD (Command Prompt).
Functionality
COMMAND allowed users to:
- Execute system commands, batch files, and internal commands.
- Manage files and directories through commands like COPY, DEL, DIR, and MD.
- Configure system settings, run programs, and perform various system maintenance tasks.
- Use command switches to modify the behavior of commands (e.g., /F for forcing file operations).
Notable Commands
Some of the key commands in COMMAND included:
- DIR - Lists directory contents.
- CD - Changes the current directory.
- COPY - Copies files or directories.
- DEL - Deletes files.
- FORMAT - Formats a disk.
- TYPE - Displays the contents of a text file.
Evolution and Replacement
As operating systems evolved, COMMAND was replaced by more advanced command interpreters:
- CMD was introduced with Windows NT in 1993, offering improved functionality and compatibility with UNIX-like shells.
- With the introduction of Windows PowerShell in 2006, Microsoft provided a more powerful command-line shell for system administration and automation.
Legacy
Despite being replaced, COMMAND remains important for:
- Legacy software compatibility.
- Understanding the roots of modern command-line interfaces.
- Its influence on the design of subsequent command interpreters.
External Links
Related Topics