Change the command prompt startup directory

By default, when you open a command prompt window (Start>> Run. Type in: cmd [Enter]), it opens to the default user profile directory (see fig #1). Changing this setting requires a registry change. Be sure to make a backup copy before making any changes.

How to change the startup directory:

1. Go to Start>> Run. Type in: regedit [Enter] or click OK.
2. Navigate to the following registry key:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Command Processor
3. Single click the entry titled: Command Processor to empty its contents in to the right pane.
4. In the right pane, double click the entry titled: Autorun
5. Double click the Autorun entry.
6. Place the actual path that you would like the command prompt to start at in to the "Value data:" text box.
7. Exit the Windows Registry.

Example: To set the Startup Directory at: C:\Windows, enter CD /d C:\Windows in the Value data text box.

Note: If the Autorun entry is not present, create a new string. Here's how:

1. Right click an empty area of the right pane.
2. Select New>> String value
3. Name the new string value: Autorun
4. Continue with Step #5 above.