The Run command offers a quick, keyboard-only way to access many of Windows’ built-in tools and settings. Instead of clicking through endless menus, you can open almost anything with just a simple shortcut and a few keystrokes. The key is to learn, memorize, and use the most common Run commands to boost your productivity.
One of the best things about the Run tool is that it remembers your previous entries. So next time, you’ll only need to type the first few letters of a command to bring it up instantly. Below, we’ll cover the top 10 Run commands every Windows user should know to quickly open essential apps and system features.
Important Run Commands Every Windows User Should Know
To access any of the tools listed below:
Press Windows + R on your keyboard → Type the command → Press Enter.
1. (Dot) Command
Typing a single period (.) in the Run box opens your user’s home folder, where you’ll find subfolders like Documents, Pictures, Desktop, Videos, and Downloads. It’s the quickest way to access all your personal files.
2. (Backslash) Command
The backslash (\) command opens the C:\ drive directly. Just type \ in the Run box, and Windows will open your main system drive instantly.
3. %USERPROFILE% Command
This command opens your user profile directory, which includes personal folders such as Music, Pictures, and Videos. Type %USERPROFILE% to jump straight to your user files.
4. %PROGRAMFILES% Command
Need to check or manage installed software? Type %PROGRAMFILES% in the Run box to open the Program Files folder on your PC. It’s where most applications are installed by default.
5. mstsc
Type mstsc to launch Remote Desktop Connection, a built-in tool that lets you connect to another Windows computer over a network or the internet. It’s a great alternative to TeamViewer for remote access.
6. services.msc
This command opens the Windows Services Manager, where you can start, stop, or configure system services. It’s especially useful for troubleshooting background processes that can’t be managed through Task Manager.
7. msinfo32
Want a detailed overview of your PC’s hardware and software? Type msinfo32 to open the System Information window, which displays everything from your processor type to installed drivers.
8. cleanmgr
The cleanmgr command opens the Disk Cleanup Utility, a handy tool to remove temporary files, cache, and other junk from your drives—freeing up valuable space and improving performance.
9. perfmon.msc
Use perfmon.msc to open the Performance Monitor, which tracks your system’s performance in real-time. It’s useful for diagnosing slowdowns or monitoring CPU and memory usage.
10. notepad
Sure, you can open Notepad from the Start menu—but typing notepad into the Run box is faster. It’s perfect when you need to jot down something quickly.
Conclusion
There are countless ways to open files, folders, and apps in Windows—shortcuts, taskbar pins, Start menu entries, and more. But none are as fast and efficient as the Run command. It’s one of Windows’ simplest yet most powerful tools for accessing system programs, settings, and directories in seconds.
So next time you want to move around Windows faster, skip the clicks—just press Win + R and start typing.
