Changing Prompt for DOS Sessions Inside of Windows

 Last reviewed: November 23, 1994
Article ID: Q70765
The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows operating system versions 3.0, 3.0a

SUMMARY

It is possible to identify an MS-DOS session that has been started from inside of Windows. This requires the use of a batch file to change the prompt. The MS-DOS ANSI.SYS driver can be used to enhance the appearance of the prompt once initiated.

MORE INFORMATION

Changing the prompt can be done through the use of a batch file that invokes a prompt command. The following batch file has been used successfully: 

   @echo off
   prompt Windows Prompt $p$g
   command
This batch file causes a prompt that looks like "Windows Prompt C:\WINDOWS>" to be displayed. This prompt draws attention to the fact that the MS-DOS session has been invoked from inside of Windows, which can be beneficial in some instances.

This batch file can replace the MS-DOS Prompt icon's Properties from the Main Group of Program Manager. Simply replace COMMAND.COM with: 

   batch_file_name.BAT
The Prompt command can be enhanced through the use of ANSI.SYS to add color or blinking text to further draw attention. For more information about ANSI.SYS, please refer to your MS-DOS manual.

KBCategory: kbother
KBSubcategory: win30
Additional reference words: 3.00 win30 3.00a

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Last reviewed: November 23, 1994
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