Mac Command Line Cheat Sheet

As a Mac user, you're probably familiar with using the command line to get things done. But did you know that Windows also has its own set of command-line shells and terminals? In this article, we'll take a look at the different options available on Windows and how they compare to the ones on your Mac.

Windows Command Line Shells

Windows has two primary command-line shells: Cmd and PowerShell. The traditional Command Prompt (Cmd) is still available, providing compatibility with current and legacy MS-DOS- compatible commands and batch files. However, users are recommended to learn and use PowerShell since Cmd is now in maintenance mode and won't receive any new features or improvements.

PowerShell

PowerShell is a cross-platform task automation and configuration management framework that consists of a command-line shell and scripting language built on .NET. It's fully open-source and available for Mac and Linux, making it a great option for administrators, developers, and power-users who need to rapidly control and automate tasks.

Some key differences between PowerShell and the traditional Command Prompt (Cmd) include:

* List the contents of the current directory using `ls` instead of `dir`

* Use `get-help` in PowerShell to learn more about commands

* Many command-aliases are supported, making it easy for Mac and Linux users to switch

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)

WSL allows you to run a Linux shell within Windows, providing a familiar environment for Mac users. You can install Linux distributions such as Ubuntu or Debian directly from the Microsoft Store.

To learn more about installing and using WSL, see the Windows Subsystem for Linux Installation Guide.

Cmd vs PowerShell

Cmd is useful when running existing/older batch files or command-line operations, but in general, it's recommended to use PowerShell since it's the future of Windows' command line. Cmd won't receive any new features or improvements, so it's best to focus on learning and using PowerShell instead.

Trackpad Options

If you're using a trackpad on your Mac or Windows device, there are some shortcuts you can use to get around more quickly. For example, you can use the Spacebar + Click to right-click or swipe three fingers up to go back in your browser history. Some of these shortcuts require a 'Precision Trackpad', such as those found on Surface devices and some other third-party laptops.

In conclusion, Windows has several command-line shells and terminals available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Whether you're a Mac user looking for a familiar environment or just starting out with Windows, PowerShell is definitely worth checking out. With its cross-platform support and open-source nature, it's a great option for anyone who needs to automate tasks or manage complex processes.

Mac command line cheat sheet