Opening desktop folder from command line

jeth32 · 15 Dec 2014

I have a desktop folder that contains all of the objects related to my internet access that is arraged in a specific way. When I click on it from the desktop, the arrangement is shown propeerly.

However, if I try to open it from the command line, the arrangement is lost and everything is displayed in a simple list view.

My goal is to eventually create a batch file that will be executed at the end of the boot process, to have this folder opened up automatically. But at present I just want to get the command syntax right and keep my arrangement when the folder is opened this way.

Tookeri · 15 Dec 2014

Hi and welcome to Sevenforums!

Try this: after you've opened explorer from the command line, customize that window/folder the way you want it. Next time you open it from the command line you'll get that same customization.

Explorer seem to differentiate from "where" you're viewing the folder, meaning where that folder is selected in the left pane: favorites, libraries, computer C: etc

I've tested with explorer "%USERPROFILE%\desktop\test"

jeth32 · 15 Dec 2014

Thanks for speedy response.

I tried it and it worked fine and didn't mess up the original display (I haven't made the two arrangements the same yet).

I will have to remember that if I do make any changes to one, that I'll have to go and update other as well.

One odd result before I got your answer...If I entered: explorer \desktop\internet from the command prompt which comes up pointing to: Users\Dad, the folder that was opened was My Documents.

Joe

Tookeri · 15 Dec 2014

It seems it opens My Documents if the parameter folder can't be found. I found another and better way so you don't have to maintain 2 arrangements:

On the desktop create a shortcut to the desktop folder. Then open that shortcut(.lnk file), example for a desktop folder named "test":
explorer "%USERPROFILE%\desktop\test - shortcut.lnk"

The shortcut was named test - shortcut and has the suffix .lnk For some reason that works. I don't know why. But trying to open with the path to the folder instead of the shortcut will cause explorer to open that folder under "Computer" in the left pane, which has it's separate customization settings. Weird!

It would be nice if someone could explain why it works this way