Take Command 36.1.54.0

Take Command by JP Software

Take Command replaces the native Windows console with a modern, feature-rich command shell and GUI that accelerates developer, systems administrator, and power-user workflows. It preserves CMD.EXE compatibility while adding hundreds of commands, extensive scripting capabilities, an integrated IDE and debugger, and advanced console features designed to boost productivity on Windows.

What it delivers

• Full CMD compatibility: Run existing CMD commands and batch files while gaining access to thousands of extensions and enhancements without rewriting scripts.
• Expanded command set: More than 235 additional internal commands plus 780+ built-in variables and functions extend file, process, and system control beyond standard CMD limits.
• Rich scripting and batch debugging: An enhanced scripting language (DO loops, SWITCH, error/exception handling) with a dedicated IDE and an advanced batch debugger for writing, stepping, and tracing scripts.
• Tabbed and split console windows: Tabbed sessions, dockable/tear-off tabs, vertical/horizontal tab groups and splitter windows let you organize multiple shells and character-mode apps in a single workspace.
• Explorer integration and file tools: Optional embedded Windows File Explorer, drag-and-drop between panes, powerful DIR/COPY/DEL enhancements, search-and-replace in files, and a regular-expression creator/analyzer.
• Developer convenience: Syntax coloring, programmable filename/directory completion, code completion, macro recorder/playback, and configurable toolbars that map commands, aliases, or scripts to buttons.
• Performance-focused: Faster output rendering (typically 20–300% faster than the native console or Windows Terminal) and optimized batch execution for quicker automation results.
• Extensible platform: Plugin SDK and support for third-party plugins and user-defined functions to extend functionality for specialized workflows.
• Multilingual and customizable UI: Interface in six languages, 18 visual themes, extensive colorization, configurable status bar, and many UI options for a tailored environment.

Performance and compatibility

Take Command combines a fast console engine with backwards compatibility for CMD.EXE, allowing legacy scripts to run unchanged while benefiting from improved speed and new commands. It also attaches to or launches existing console apps (including PowerShell and WSL) in tabbed sessions, making it a practical replacement for the default Windows console.

Workflow and automation

• Powerful automation: Robust scripting constructs, hundreds of variables and functions, and built-in commands simplify repetitive tasks and system management.
• Integrated debugging and testing: The IDE and batch debugger reduce development time by providing step-through execution, breakpoints, and variable inspection.
• Tooling: Macro recorder, regex tools, and file search/replace accelerate common maintenance and deployment tasks.

Customization and user experience

• UI personalization: Themes, syntax and output colorization, configurable toolbars (up to 20 tabs with 50 buttons each), and a configurable status bar supply rapid access to commands and system info.
• Clipboard and selection enhancements: Line/column selection, overwrite/append clipboard options, and paste modes that replace limited default console behavior.

Who should consider Take Command

• Developers and scripters who need a sophisticated batch programming environment and faster script development/debugging.
• System administrators who manage large numbers of files, processes, or automated tasks on Windows systems and require robust command and automation tools.
• Power users who want a configurable, multi-tabbed console with integrated file management and productivity tooling beyond the standard CMD prompt.

Pricing, trial and support

Take Command is available as a commercial product with a free trial. JP Software provides extensive documentation, context-sensitive popup help, and multilingual online support. A plugin SDK and third-party extensions are available for specialists who need custom integrations.