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Nerd Academy ⭑

Learning the windows command line won't just take your IT skills to a new level, it will open a new portal.

No matter what your workflow is, learning the command line will add a new layer of efficiency and productivity.

The command prompt (cmd) is so versatile that if you do any task  in a computer you can always find a use for it.

Don't believe us?

Here is what some of our students have to say:

Alexander Armstrong:

"Excellent for those unfamiliar with the command line. I feel very confident from taking this class. Would definitely recommend. "

Jolon Balkham:

Read more

Learning the windows command line won't just take your IT skills to a new level, it will open a new portal.

No matter what your workflow is, learning the command line will add a new layer of efficiency and productivity.

The command prompt (cmd) is so versatile that if you do any task  in a computer you can always find a use for it.

Don't believe us?

Here is what some of our students have to say:

Alexander Armstrong:

"Excellent for those unfamiliar with the command line. I feel very confident from taking this class. Would definitely recommend. "

Jolon Balkham:

"The course was helpful and explained in an easy to understand way, I would recommend this course."

Peter Anderson:"Never seen a course like this. Very good. Learned a lot from it."

Become one of those happy students by enrolling now.

What you'll learn:

In this course you will learn exactly what the windows command line (cmd) is and gain valuable insight on how the windows command prompt (ms-dos) actually works rather than memorizing commands.

Even if you are a complete beginner with no previous experience, you will learn everything from the ground up, step by step in a fun and engaging way.

The windows command line (ms-dos) is one of the most powerful tools in the windows operating system and it can be used to do almost anything.

From simple tasks such as moving, renaming and deleting files to troubleshooting your system or network and automating small tasks using batch scripting.

By the end of this course, i am confident, that you will:

  • Have a deep understanding on what the windows command line (cmd) is and how it works.

  • Be able to complete complex tasks in an instant using the windows command prompt (ms-dos).

  • Effectively troubleshoot or manage a network from the windows command line (cmd).

  • Use your computer much more efficiently.

  • Automate small tasks using batch scripts.

  • And much MUCH more...

if you are ready to become a poweruser join me and the other students by enrolling now.

What are you waiting for?

Enroll NOW to get started.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Become the most powerful and productive version of yourself.
  • No more searching or memorizing commands. this course has everything you need!
  • Learn everything there is to know about the windows command line (cmd).
  • Learn the command prompt step by step in a fun and engaging way.
  • The most comprehensive package!
  • Suitable for both beginner and intermediate cmd students.
  • And much much more..

Syllabus

Learn how to navigate the command line, view, rename, delete files

In this lecture we are going to learn the very basics of the command line.

  • We will start with an introduction.

  • We will then learn how to use commands to view our files.

  • And how to use parameters to manage the output.

Lets get started.

Read more

Lets test your knowledge!

In this lecture we are going to learn:

  • How to navigate the command line.

  • How to create or delete folders from our current as well as different directories.

  • And everything in between.

Lets get started.

In this lecture we are going to learn a few more essential networking commands. We are going to learn.

  • How to view various information about our network or a server

  • How to configure our computers routing table.

  • And how to view or configure our internet protocol configuration.

Lets get started.

This lecture is all about working with files and folders.

  • We are going to learn how to use the command line to move or copy files.

  • How to rename and delete files and Folders.

  • And how to use wildcards to manipulate multiple files at once.

Lets get started!

In this lecture we are going to learn:

  • What redirectors are.

  • How we can use them to create files from the command line.

  • And how to combine multiple commands.

Lets get started.

In this lecture we are going to learn:

  • The 3 ways you can use the command line to launch applications.

  • How to use environment variables to make the process easier.

  • And everything in between.

Lets get started!

In this lecture we are going to learn:

  • How to create and run your first script.

  • And how to implement variables.

  • As well as some logic into our script.

Lets get started.

In this lecture we are going to learn what loops are exactly and how we can use them.

  • How to create and use our very first loop.

  • How to use loops to loop through every file in a directory.

  • And everything in between.

Lets get started.

Lets see what you have learned.

In this lecture we are going to learn how to complete a variety of tasks using batch scripts. Specifically, we will learn:

  • How to manipulate a number of files and folders all at once.

  • How to loop only through a specific set of files based on some criteria.

  • And how to vastly expand the functionality of loops.

Lets get started.

In this lecture we are going to locate, compare and encrypt files using the command line.

  • We are going to learn how to view the structure of a directory.

  • How to search and compare files.

  • And how to securely encrypt and decrypt files & folders.

Lets get started!

This lecture is all about file attributes. We are going to learn:

  • What file attributes are and what purpose they serve.

  • How we can assign file attributes to our files and folders.

  • And how we can use file attributes to change how we or the system can interact with files or folders.

Lets get started.

This lecture is all about extension associations and file types. We are going to learn:

  • What file types and extension associations are.

  • How we can view the associations between file types and extensions in our computer.

  • And how to change the association of certain file type with an extension.

Lets get started.

In this lecture we are going to learn a number of tips and tricks you can use on the command line to improve your efficiency and productivity.

  • We will learn how to view your command history.

  • How to automatically complete commands.

  • How to abort a running command.

  • And a number of other tips and tricks.

Lets get started!

In this lecture we are going to learn how to manage and schedule tasks directly from the command line.

  • We are going to learn how to view every running processes and service in your computer and how to stop them

  • How to use the command line to schedule and automatically execute tasks in your system.

  • And how to configure your scheduled tasks.

Lets get started.

In this lecture we are going to learn how to configure and maintain our system.

  • We are going to learn how to schedule shutdowns and restarts.

  • What power plans are and how to configure them.

  • As well as how to scan and correct file system and disk errors.

Lets get started.

I really hope you have enjoyed this course, i have certainly enjoyed teaching you.

Make sure you use the command line often so that you do not forget what you have learned.

Until then, see you on the next course.

Goodbye.

In this lecture we are going to learn everything about the windows registry.

  • We are going to learn what the registry is and how it’s used.

  • How to create and delete sub-entries within the registry.

  • As well as how to create, edit and delete entries.

Lets get started!

In this lecture we are going to learn a few essential commands. We are going to learn.

  • How to resolve network connectivity issues from the command line.

  • How to view every active network connection in your computer.

  • And how to view various information such as which ports are active or which applications initiate connections.

Lets get started.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers system administration and management, which are essential skills for IT professionals who need to configure and maintain systems efficiently
Suitable for both beginner and intermediate students, providing a comprehensive learning experience for those new to the command line and those looking to expand their knowledge
Focuses specifically on the Windows command line (CMD), making it highly relevant for users of the Windows operating system who want to enhance their productivity
Teaches how to automate tasks using batch scripts, enabling learners to become more efficient and productive in their daily computer use
Explores networking commands and troubleshooting techniques, which are valuable for learners interested in network administration and resolving connectivity issues
Includes a section on batch scripting, which may be useful for automating tasks, but batch scripting is not as widely used as other scripting languages like PowerShell or Python

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Reviews summary

Practical windows cmd for beginners

According to learners, this course provides a solid introduction to the Windows command line, making it excellent for beginners who are new to CMD, Batch, and MS-DOS. Students appreciate that the course focuses on understanding concepts rather than just memorizing commands. The content covers a range of practical tasks including file management, networking tools, system administration, and basic batch scripting for automating tasks. The hands-on demonstrations are often highlighted as helpful. However, some students note the course has a limited scope, focusing exclusively on CMD and not covering PowerShell, which is a more modern alternative. While suitable for beginners, some feel it lacks sufficient depth for intermediate or advanced users seeking more complex examples or techniques.
Relies on demonstrations and examples.
"The instructor walked through the examples clearly on screen."
"I could easily follow along with the practical demonstrations."
"More independent exercises or challenges would have been beneficial."
Explains the 'why', not just commands.
"I liked how the instructor explained how the command line works, not just what the commands are."
"Understanding the underlying principles made it much easier to learn and remember."
"This course helps build a deep understanding rather than just command memorization."
Useful skills for daily tasks.
"I learned commands that helped me manage files and folders much faster."
"The system administration and networking tools sections provided practical, applicable knowledge."
"Being able to automate small tasks with batch scripts is a real time-saver at work."
"This course gives you tools you can use right away to be more efficient."
Starts from scratch, ideal for novices.
"Excellent for those unfamiliar with the command line. I feel very confident from taking this class."
"I had no previous experience with command line and found this course very easy to follow."
"The course covers everything you need to know starting from the ground up."
"This is a perfect course if you're a complete beginner and don't know where to start."
Too basic for intermediate users.
"If you're already comfortable with CMD basics, this course might not offer much new material."
"Could benefit from more complex examples and advanced scripting techniques."
"It's great for starters, but doesn't push into more complex automation or system tasks."
"Not suitable for intermediate users seeking advanced topics or challenges."
Limited to older Windows command prompt.
"It's a good CMD course, but doesn't cover modern PowerShell which is widely used now."
"The content is strictly limited to the old command line interface."
"I was hoping for some introduction to PowerShell, but this course only focuses on CMD."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Windows Command Line - Hands-On (CMD, Batch, MS-DOS) with these activities:
Review Basic Networking Concepts
Reinforce your understanding of networking fundamentals to better grasp the network-related commands covered in the course.
Browse courses on TCP/IP
Show steps
  • Read articles or watch videos explaining basic networking concepts.
  • Take a short quiz to test your understanding.
Practice Navigating the File System
Solidify your command-line navigation skills by practicing common file system operations.
Show steps
  • Create a directory structure with nested folders and files.
  • Use CMD commands to move, copy, and delete files and folders.
  • Practice using wildcards to manipulate multiple files at once.
Create a System Information Report
Generate a detailed report of your system's hardware and software configuration using CMD commands and output redirection.
Show steps
  • Use CMD commands to gather system information.
  • Redirect the output of the commands to a text file.
  • Format the text file into a readable report.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Cheat Sheet of Common CMD Commands
Compile a personalized cheat sheet to quickly reference frequently used CMD commands and their syntax.
Show steps
  • Identify the CMD commands you use most often.
  • Document the syntax and common options for each command.
  • Organize the cheat sheet for easy reference.
Automate a Task with a Batch Script
Apply your batch scripting knowledge by automating a repetitive task you frequently perform on your computer.
Show steps
  • Identify a task that can be automated with a batch script.
  • Write a batch script to perform the task.
  • Test and debug the script to ensure it works correctly.
Mastering Windows Command Scripting
Expand your knowledge of batch scripting with a comprehensive guide that covers advanced techniques and real-world examples.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on key concepts and techniques.
  • Experiment with the examples provided in the book.
Windows Internals, 7th Edition
Gain a deeper understanding of the Windows operating system to better appreciate the power and limitations of the command line.
Show steps
  • Read selected chapters related to system processes and memory management.
  • Relate the concepts to CMD commands for process management and memory analysis.

Career center

Learners who complete Windows Command Line - Hands-On (CMD, Batch, MS-DOS) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
System Administrator
A system administrator maintains computer systems, and this course greatly helps with that. This role frequently uses the command line to perform tasks such as managing files, troubleshooting network issues, automating processes, and managing system resources. The course's focus on the Windows command line, covering topics like file management, network configuration, and batch scripting, directly translates to the practical skills needed for a system administrator. This course enables a system administrator to complete complex tasks using the command prompt by gaining an understanding of how it works, rather than simply memorizing commands.
Network Administrator
A network administrator is responsible for the upkeep of computer networks, and this course is helpful for that. This position requires proficiency in using command line tools for network configuration and troubleshooting. The course covers essential networking commands, how to view network information, and how to manage routing tables and internet protocol configurations. A prospective network administrator should take this course to build confidence in managing networks from the command line. The course also covers how to resolve network connectivity issues, which is particularly valuable for a network administrator.
Information Technology Support Specialist
An Information Technology support specialist provides technical assistance to users, and this course will be valuable to them. This role often requires using the command line to diagnose and fix issues on computers. The course builds a foundation in using the Windows command line for tasks like file management, navigating directories, troubleshooting network problems, and automating tasks. The course's comprehensive approach that explains exactly what a command prompt is and how it works, step by step, is helpful for an IT support specialist, including those with no prior experience. Information technology support specialists may use the command line to quickly resolve user issues, and this course can help with that.
Help Desk Technician
A help desk technician provides support to users, and this course is a good fit. A help desk technician often uses the command line to diagnose and fix problems. The course teaches how to use the Windows command line, covering tasks like file management, troubleshooting networks, and automating small tasks via batch scripting. A help desk technician can use their knowledge of basic commands to quickly diagnose and resolve many user issues, and this course helps build that capability. This course's explanation of how the command prompt works will aid in solving user issues.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity analysts protect computer systems from threats, and this course may be useful to those in the role. While this role involves a vast array of tools, the course’s teachings related to the command line, such as viewing active network connections, understanding system processes, and file manipulation, can contribute to certain aspects of the role. The course covers how to securely encrypt, decrypt, and compare files. This knowledge can help the cybersecurity analyst diagnose and secure systems. A cybersecurity analyst can use the Windows command line to quickly assess a vulnerable system.
Automation Engineer
An automation engineer designs and implements automated systems, and this course may prove helpful. While this role involves broader automation tools, the course's emphasis on batch scripting provides a foundation for automating tasks using the Windows command line. The course gives an understanding of how to use loops, variables, and logic in scripts, which builds a foundation for automation. An automation engineer can use the Windows command line as a tool for their function. This course provides hands-on experience in writing, running, and implementing logic in a Windows batch script.
Technical Consultant
A technical consultant advises clients on technology solutions, and this course may be valuable to them.. They often need a deep general knowledge of how computer systems work. The course's coverage of the Windows command line and its ability to be used to do almost anything provides a foundation for understanding and interacting with computer systems. Consultants can use the command line to quickly diagnose and resolve problems. The course’s step-by-step approach means that the course is suitable for both beginner and intermediate students who are on the path to becoming consultants.
Software Developer
A software developer creates and maintains software, and this course may be helpful to them. While most software development work is done using specialized tools, the course offers an understanding of the command line, which can be helpful for tasks like running scripts, managing files, and quickly executing programs. The course covers using command line applications, directing output, and using environment variables, which are useful to some software developers. The course’s focus on the command line can be helpful for software developers, especially when managing build processes or troubleshooting issues.
Data Analyst
A data analyst examines data to draw conclusions, and this course may be valuable to a data analyst. While data analysis primarily uses data analysis tools, this course provides a functional understanding of the command line that data scientists can leverage for file management tasks. The course covers how to use the command line to rename, move, compare, and encrypt files. Such file management skills can be useful to a data analyst. Data scientists sometime need to work with large numbers of files, making a knowledge of command line tools particularly useful.
Database Administrator
Database administrators manage and maintain databases, and this course may be beneficial. While most database work uses specialized database tools, the course provides a foundational understanding of the command line, which can help for some tasks such as managing files and scripts. The course goes into how to manage and schedule tasks directly from the command line. Although not directly related to database administration, it is useful for maintenance and management. Database administrators can find that the command line assists with some of their functions.
Technical Writer
Technical writers create documentation for technical products, and this course may be helpful for a technical writer. While this role is largely about writing, the course gives the writer an understanding of the Windows command line, which is helpful when writing user manuals or guides. The course's emphasis on the command line and its uses provides a strong base of knowledge for a technical writer. A technical writer who understands the Windows command line will have greater credibility, which will allow them to produce superior technical documentation.
Quality Assurance Tester
A quality assurance tester evaluates software for quality and functionality, and this course may be helpful to them. While they primarily use QA tools, having a knowledge of the command line provides a greater appreciation of computer systems. The course covers the windows command line, which is used to do almost anything. This knowledge can help the quality assurance tester better perform their duties. The course’s focus on system operation can be particularly valuable for quality assurance testers.
IT Project Manager
An IT project manager oversees technology projects, and this course may be useful for them. While project management is largely about leadership and organization, a general understanding of computer systems and the command line helps them to better understand their teams and the nature of projects. The course covers the windows command line, and this provides a basis of knowledge for the project manager. The course teaches how to automate small tasks via batch scripting, which can be useful for project management.
Data Center Technician
A data center technician maintains the physical infrastructure of data centers, and this course may fit into their role. While the job is mostly about physical hardware, having a background in the command line allows the technician to better interact with the software components of machines. The course teaches how to use the Windows command line, and this can help a data center technician to be a more well-rounded professional. This course can also help the technician quickly diagnose and resolve some issues.
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer hardware engineers design and develop computer hardware, and this course may be helpful to them. While this role primarily focuses on hardware, a knowledge of the Windows command line can sometimes be helpful for testing and diagnostics. The course’s hands-on approach to learning the Windows command line can help a hardware engineer to be a well-rounded problem solver. This course can give a hardware engineer a deeper appreciation for the software side of computer systems.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Windows Command Line - Hands-On (CMD, Batch, MS-DOS).
Provides a comprehensive guide to Windows command scripting, covering advanced techniques and best practices. It delves deeper into batch scripting than the course, offering practical examples and real-world scenarios. It valuable resource for students who want to master batch scripting and automate complex tasks. This book is useful as a reference tool.
Provides an in-depth look at the inner workings of the Windows operating system. While not directly focused on CMD, it provides valuable context for understanding how the command line interacts with the system. It is more valuable as additional reading than as a current reference. This book is commonly used by industry professionals.

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