NirCmd

NirCmd lets you do a lot on your computer without taking your hands off the keyboard or calling up a dialog or program interface. It's a command-line utility, but don't be put off by the "old" tech -- expert users know it's still the fastest way to do things. A full Help file makes NirCmd easy for new users to learn, too.

Pros

Copy to Registry: During setup, NirCmd offers to copy itself to the Windows Registry, so you don't have to type "nircmd.exe" each time. You can just copy nircmd.exe to any folder in the PATH environmental variable.

Fast typing: Fast-fingered typers will love NirCmd's ability to do a lot of things you'd otherwise have to take your hands off the keyboard and move to the mouse to do.

Example commands: NirCmd's product page lists lots of example commands for doing everything from opening and closing your CD drive's door to writing and deleting Registry values.

Showerror: The optional showerror parameter will display an error message if a command fails to execute. Many other syntax options are listed, including special string sequences.

Cons

Unfamiliar: The command line is so unfamiliar to today's PC users that it can be confusing and even intimidating. NirCmd can help dispel the mystery of the command line, but it may still prove too daunting to less-experienced users.

Bottom Line

With so many potential uses, NirCmd is certainly worth a try.