Previous versions of Windows already come with many shell commands and CLSID for known folders (e.g., Music, Documents, AppData, etc.), but now in Windows 8 have some new ones…
Shell commands with CLSID and names, new to Windows 8
All installed Apps Proximity: Access to the proximity service to enable applications to exchange information with another PC or device when they are close together. Metro style file search: Search files in your PC. Refresh or Reset PC: Access to this utility. All settings: Very similar to Windows’ God Mode this command will allow you to access all operating system configurations settings, but it is just sorted in a different way. Storage Space Roaming Tiles User Account Pictures
How to use shell command
In the examples below you can learn how to use CLSIDs or Names mentioned above in different sections of Windows.
Windows Explorer Address Bar
shell:Name explorer shell:Name explorer.exe shell:::{CLSID} shell:::{CLSID}
Command Prompt
explorer shell:Name explorer.exe shell:::{CLSID}
To Create New Shortcuts
explorer shell:Name %WinDir%\explorer shell:Name %WinDir%\explorer.exe shell:::{CLSID} explorer.exe shell:::{CLSID}
Creating shortcuts with shell commands
Shortcuts in Windows are useful to get to specific locations quickly and creating them with shell commands are not that different as you are used to with regular shortcuts. Just right-click an empty space in your desktop, from the contextual menu select New, Shortcut and in Type the location of the item, copy and paste one of the shell commands (e.g., explorer.exe shell:::{4234d49b-0245-4df3-B780-3893943456e1}) and finish creating the shortcut.
Run command (+ R)
shell:Name explorer shell:Name explorer.exe shell:::{CLSID} shell:::{CLSID}
Registry
explorer shell:Name explorer.exe shell:::{CLSID}
If you like, you can find all the shell commands within Windows in the Name string value for each CLSID (GUID) from the following Registry path: Did we miss one new to Windows 8? Let us know in the comments below, thanks. All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.
