Description #
Batch scripting (or Windows CMD) refers to writing .bat or .cmd files that run a sequence of commands in the Windows Command Prompt environment. It’s a simple yet powerful way to automate repetitive Windows tasks like file management, software installation, and system configuration.
History #
Batch scripting has been around since the early days of MS-DOS in the 1980s. It became the standard method for automating tasks in Windows environments, particularly for IT admins. Though it’s considered outdated compared to PowerShell, it remains in use due to its simplicity, legacy compatibility, and integration with older systems.
Key milestones:
- Originated from CP/M and MS-DOS command languages
- Fully adopted in Windows with
.batand.cmdfile extensions - Still used in enterprise IT environments and system installers
Hello World Code #
@echo off
echo Hello, World!
pauseHow to Run #
On any Windows machine: #
- Open Notepad
- Paste the code
- Save the file as:
hello.bat - Double-click the file to run it
- A Command Prompt window will appear displaying
Hello, World!
Key Concepts #
@echo off— disables command echo for cleaner outputecho— prints a message to the screenpause— waits for user input before closing.bator.cmd— standard batch file extensions- Control flow:
if,goto,call,forloops - Environment variables:
%USERNAME%,%PATH% - Errorlevel checks for conditional logic
- File system automation: copy, move, delete
- Compatibility with almost every Windows version
- Lightweight and doesn’t require external tools
- Can run silently or with UI prompts
Try It Online #
🔗 OnlineGDB – Batch Simulator
🔗 rextester.com – Windows CMD
Fun Facts #
.batfiles were originally used to boot and install early operating systems- You can prank friends with batch files—like infinite loop pop-ups
- Many installers and system diagnostics still rely on batch under the hood
- Windows Task Scheduler can run
.batscripts automatically - Some modern games and mods use
.batfiles for configuration
