What is .bat?
.bat files contain a series of commands to be executed by the Command Prompt (cmd.exe) on Windows operating systems. They are legacy scripts used for automating system tasks, launching programs, and file management, dating back to MS-DOS.
This quick guide explains when to use .bat files, how to open them on any device, and how to share them instantly with FileXhost.
When to use .bat files
- You want to automate simple tasks on Windows (e.g., clearing cache, mapping network drives).
- You need a startup script for a legacy Windows application.
- You are writing a simple installer or wrapper script.
- You need to execute a sequence of DOS commands.
How to open .bat files
BAT files are plain text and can be edited in any text editor like Notepad. To run them, simply double-click the file in Windows Explorer or execute it from the Command Prompt.
Algorithm details
Batch files are interpreted line-by-line by `cmd.exe`. They support basic control structures like `IF`, `GOTO`, and `FOR` loops, but are much less powerful than modern scripting languages like PowerShell or Python.
Browser & platform support
- Direct: Not supported by browsers.
- Safe Browsing: Browsers often block downloading .bat files because they can be used to execute malicious code on Windows.
Format comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Extremely old (dates back to the 1980s). Kept for backward compatibility. |
| Power | Limited functionality compared to PowerShell (.ps1). String manipulation and math are difficult. |
| Compatibility | Runs on every version of Windows out of the box without installing anything. |
How to create bat files
- Notepad: Write commands and save as 'script.bat'.
- CLI: 'echo @echo off > script.bat'.
How to convert bat files
- FileXhost: Upload to share scripts.
- Compilers: Tools like 'Bat To Exe Converter' can turn scripts into standalone .exe files.
Advantages & disadvantages
Advantages
- Works on every Windows PC instantly
- Simple syntax for basic commands (copy, move, del)
- No dependencies required
Disadvantages
- Very limited programming features
- Arcane syntax for loops and variables
- Security risk (often blocked by email filters and antivirus)
- Replaced by PowerShell for modern administration
Tools & software
Editors
Notepad++, VS Code, Windows Notepad
Interpreter
Windows Command Prompt (cmd.exe)
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between .bat and .cmd?
Functionally, they are almost identical on modern Windows. .bat comes from MS-DOS, while .cmd was introduced in Windows NT. Use .bat for maximum compatibility.
Why does the black window disappear so fast?
When a batch script finishes, the window closes immediately. Add the command `pause` at the end of your script to keep the window open so you can read the output.
How do I comment in a batch file?
Use `REM` (Remark) or `::` at the start of a line to create a comment.
Technical specs
- File type
- Code
- Extension
- .bat
- MIME type
- application/x-bat, text/x-msdos-batch, text/plain
- Compression
- Uncompressed
- Max file size on FileXhost
- Up to 25 MB per file on the free plan and up to 1 GB on Pro FileXhost accounts.
Share .bat files instantly
Upload your .bat file to FileXhost to get a clean, shareable URL in seconds. View the file in a modern browser, protect access with optional settings, and let others download it without any confusing ads or cluttered file pages.
Upload .bat file