Windows Power User Cheat Sheet: Hidden Commands That Actually Make Life Easier

You don’t need to be a sysadmin to use the Windows command line — but knowing a few powerful commands can completely change the way you work. Whether you're automating tasks, fixing stubborn issues, or just want to feel more in control of your machine, this cheat sheet covers practical, time-saving commands using both PowerShell and Command Prompt. No registry hacks, no fluff — just stuff that works.

📁 SYSTEM & FILES
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explorer .                     # Open current folder in Explorer
start notepad.exe              # Launch Notepad
cd ..                          # Move up one folder
dir                            # List directory contents
copy file.txt D:\Backup\       # Copy file
move *.jpg D:\Images\          # Move files
del /q *.log                   # Delete .log files silently

🔍 SEARCH & INFO
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findstr /s /i "error" *.log    # Search text in files
where python                   # Find path of a program
get-command                    # List PowerShell commands
get-help restart-computer      # Help for a command
systeminfo                     # Full system details

🧪 HIDDEN GEMS (Underrated)
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cleanmgr /sageset:1            # Advanced disk cleanup setup
sfc /scannow                   # Scan & repair system files
choco install git              # Install via Chocolatey (if available)
Get-Clipboard                  # Show clipboard contents (PowerShell)
clip < file.txt                # Copy file contents to clipboard
shutdown /s /t 0               # Shutdown instantly

🌐 NETWORK
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ipconfig /all                  # Full IP configuration
ping google.com                # Check connectivity
netstat -ano                   # List all active ports
taskkill /PID 1234 /F          # Kill process by PID
get-netadapter                 # View network adapters

📦 PACKAGE MGMT & TOOLS
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winget install vscode          # Install apps via Winget
choco list -lo                 # List installed Chocolatey packages
get-process | sort cpu -desc   # Top processes by CPU

📜 ALIASES (PowerShell profile)
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Set-Alias ll Get-ChildItem
Set-Alias gs git status
Function restart-explorer {Stop-Process -Name explorer -Force; Start explorer}