Bash in Windows 10: The Ultimate Command Prompt

If you're a computer expert, you're familiar with Windows' command prompt — which you probably call "command prompt" or "command line interface." Windows 10 has a 'super cli' called PowerShell, but there's another step up: Bash in Windows 10. This command prompt comes from the Linux world and offers even more possibilities.

Step 1: Developers

We won't go too far into the possibilities of Bash, you can figure that out for yourself as an expert: Google is your friend, otherwise there is always this article. In this how to you can read how to activate and start Bash in Windows 10. At the time of writing, Bash was only available as a beta, but we see that more often with special tools. It can only be made working under a 64-bit version of Windows 10. Open the settings via Windows key + I and go to To update and security / For developers. Activate the component here Developer mode.

Step 2: Install Bash

Go to the classic control panel and go to Programs / Programs and Features. click on Enable or disable Windows features. Check the box next to Windows Subsystem for Linux and confirm with OK. The component will be installed, after which you will need to restart your computer.

Once your system is logged in again, click on your start menu and give the command here bash. A dos-like environment will appear prompting you to install Bash. Run this installation and wait patiently.

Step 3: Start Bash

After installation, you need to set a username and password for the new Linux environment. Bash is very powerful, so set a good password. You will be logged in immediately and can get started with Bash. Close the Bash window with the familiar cross or give the command exit.

The next time the command bash in your start menu, you will see Bash on Ubuntu on Windows. This gives you direct access to the extra 'Linux layer' in Windows 10. Experiment with commands, but know that Bash is a tool for experts and you can (also) do damage with it if you just do something that you don't know the outcome.

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