The Best Windows 8 Run Command and "CMD" Commands to get you Started

By now you've probably figured out (or at least heard) that Windows 8 is a little different from previous versions of Windows.

The Windows 8 Metro screen replaces the "Start" menu, all of the programs are bunched together under "Apps", and it's even difficult to shut the PC off at first. But don't stress! Windows 8 is a great OS, you just need to know some of the Windows 8 Shortcuts and the Run commands I'm about to show you.

In this article I'll share some of the Best and "Secret" Windows Run commands that some IT guys don't even use! (not mentioning any names...Bryan...). Master these simple Windows commands and you'll be flying around Windows 8 (and Windows7) like a pro.

TIP -- Simply hit the "Windows Key" (the key with the logo in the header pic) + "R" to open the Windows Run bar. You can also run these commands from the Search Window in the bottom left of your desktop. (I personally turn search off and hit "Windows" + "R" for everything, but either method works).

Ready? Grab that energy drink and lets get started!

• appwiz.cpl --- direct access to "Programs and Features". Tired of finding control panel, then toggling between "Small Icons" or "Feature View", then making your way to Windows "Programs and Features"? (I'm tired just talking about it!) Well guess what, type this Run command in and you'll immediately open the Windows "Programs and Features" window.

• ncpa.cpl -- direct access to Windows "Network Connections". If you've had to navigate through the Windows GUI 8000 times like I have to get to the TCP (or wireless connections) screen on your PC, then this little Run Command will become priceless.

• services.msc --- quickly open up the services window. This is by far the fastest way to access the services running on your PC.

• TIP -- If your a Windows 7 User, you may want to check my "Make your Windows 7 computer Fast like a Pro" article. In the article I reference the services console, as well as some resources you can use to judge which Windows services you actually need. Both Windows 7 and 8 come with services out of the box that most people can turn off to help boost your performance up and increase security.

• firewall.cpl -- super fast way to open the Windows Firewall window. But what about some of the other Windows security features? Glad you asked!

• gpedit.msc --- direct access to your local group policy editor. (Don't tell your IT guy I showed you this...). Now, before you go in and start "flipping switches", make sure you know exactly what it it is your flipping. Some of these settings are self explanatory, some are not. There is way more than enough reading on this subject, and you will want to read up on some of these settings before making changes.

• shutdown --- another obvious Run command, but will save you some time, especially when starting out in Windows 8. (For you tinkerer's out there, in my link above (Windows 8 part 2, I show you how to create a "shutdown" icon on the desktop using a simple batch file and a shortcut icon).

• cmd -- last but not least, the "Windows Command "CMD" console. From the Windows "cmd" console window you can run all sorts of commands. For more reading on this subject feel free to check out my "Ten Best Windows 7 Commands" hub to get you going.