On Windows 11, the “shell” commands refer to the system shortcuts designed for navigating common folders without typing the full path. For example, you would use the “Shell:Startup” shortcut to open the “Startup” folder in C:\Users\user\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup. The “Shell:AppData” shortcut to open the “AppData” folder in C:\Users\user\AppData\Roaming, and so on to open the “Windows,” “Documents,” “Pictures,” and many of the available folders.
Shell commands can be helpful in many scenarios. However, they’re handy for network administrators and tech-savvy users to access the many different folders from the “Run” command dialog or File Explorer to complete a specific task, including troubleshooting and fixing problems on Windows 11.
In this guide, you will learn the different shell commands you can use to open known folders in File Explorer on Windows 11
Shell commands cheat sheet for Windows 11
To run shell commands on Windows is straightforward, use the Windows key + R keyboard shortcut to open the Run command, type the command like “Shell:AppsFolder” and click the OK button. You can also type the shell command in the File Explorer address bar and press Enter to navigate to the shortcut’s folder path.
While we focus this guide on Windows 11, the majority of these commands will also apply to Windows 10.
