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Command line

A prompt where the user types in a command, as opposed to using the mouse to perform a command. For example, a root MS-DOS command line is generally C:\>, in Unix it may be %, or >. Unlike a GUI Operating System, a command line operating system only uses a keyboard to navigate and does not utilize a mouse.

Because command line operating systems require commands to be used, these types of operating systems are much more difficult to learn for new users and can take time. However, a command line operating system can be a very valuable resource and should not be ignored. For example, users who have Microsoft Windows may find trivial tasks such as renaming 100+ files in a folder a very difficult task; however, this is something that can be done in a matter of seconds through a simple command at the command line.

  • Additional help and information about MS-DOS can be found on our MS-DOS page.
  • Additional help and information about Unix and Linux can be found on our Unix / Linux page.
  • A comparison between a command line interface and a graphical user interface can be found on document CH000619.

Also see: CUI, Operating system definitions

 

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