How to Access My Computer From the Command Line in XP

If you need to access the command line inside of your Windows XP computer, there are two ways to do it. One way assumes that your computer is working properly, while the other assumes that your computer is malfunctioning, and you can't boot it up normally. Either way, accessing your computer through a command line is a straightforward process.

Instructions

Command Line Access with a Working Computer

1. Step 1

   Turn on your computer and log into Windows as you normally would.

2. Step 2

   Wait for the operating system to load completely, then click on the "Start" button, then click on the "Run" button and type "cmd" (without quotes). Alternatively, click on the "Start" button, click on "All Programs," "Accessories" and "System Tools," and then click on the "Command Prompt" program choice.

3. Step 3

   Wait for the command prompt window to open. When finished, close the window by typing "exit" and pressing the "Enter" key.

Command Line Access When Windows Won't Boot

4. Step 1

   Insert your original Windows XP CD into the computer and restart it. Choose the startup option that will allow you to boot from CD, then press any key to start the CD boot process.

5. Step 2

   Wait for the boot loader to go through the automated loading screens, then press the "R" key once the process has completed. This will start the Recovery Console.

6. Step 3

   At the command prompt, enter your username and password that you use to log on to Windows, then perform the operations you need to do. When finished, type "Exit," then press the "Enter" key to exit the Recovery Console. Restart the computer.