The run shortcut key in Windows is Win + R. It opens the small Run dialog box at the bottom left of the screen. Type the name of a program, tool or folder and press Enter to open it at once, often faster than searching the Start menu.
Pressing Ctrl + Shift + Enter instead of Enter runs the command as administrator. Below is a list of Run commands that office staff and students use most.
Quick facts
Open Run
Win + RRun normally
EnterRun as administrator
Ctrl + Shift + EnterEarlier commands
Down in the boxPower user menu way
Win + X, then RClose the box
Esc
Run shortcut key and how to use it
- Press Win + R. The Run box opens with the last command already selected.
- Type a command, for example calc.
- Press Enter to open it, or Ctrl + Shift + Enter for administrator rights.
- Press Esc to close the box without running anything.
The box remembers earlier commands. Press Down to see the list and pick one.
Useful Run commands
| Command | Opens |
|---|---|
| cmd | Command Prompt |
| calc | Calculator |
| notepad | Notepad |
| control | Control Panel |
| devmgmt.msc | Device Manager |
| appwiz.cpl | Programs and Features (uninstall) |
| msconfig | System Configuration |
| %temp% | The temporary files folder |
| services.msc | Services |
| osk | On screen keyboard |
| dxdiag | System and graphics information |
| winver | Your exact Windows version |
Windows run shortcut for folders and websites
Run also opens folders and addresses. Type a path such as C:\Users and press Enter to open it in File Explorer, or type a website address to open it in the default browser. Typing a single dot opens your user folder. This is handy when the Start menu is slow or a folder is buried deep.
Run versus Start search
Start search (Win and type) is friendlier because it shows matching apps, files and settings as you type, with icons. Run is faster when you already know the exact command, and it opens system tools such as Services or Device Manager that search sometimes hides behind other results. Many technicians use both: search for apps they use every day, and Run for tools, folders and commands. Run also works in the old Windows installations still common in some offices, where search can be slow.
Frequently asked questions
What is the run shortcut key?
What does Window + R do?
It opens the Run dialog box, where you type a command to open a program or folder.
How do I run a command as administrator?
Type it in the Run box and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
What are useful Run commands?
cmd, calc, notepad, control, devmgmt.msc, appwiz.cpl and %temp%.
How do I see earlier Run commands?
Press Down in the Run box.
Is there a Run box on Mac?
The nearest equivalent is the Mac search box, opened with Command + Space.