How to Change Computer Time and Dates Using the Command Prompt

The MS-DOS operating system was replaced with Microsoft Windows years ago, so most users are no longer familiar with MS-DOS commands. However, you might want to use the command prompt to set the computer's date and time.

Instructions

Changing the Date

1. From the "Start" button, choose "Run" and enter "cmd.exe" in the text box. A window will open and the cursor will be at the command prompt.

2. Type "date." The computer will respond with the current date setting and invite you to set a new date. It will also show you the format for entering the date.

3. Change the date by typing mm-dd-yy. For example, to change the date to February 28, 2008, type "02-29-08." Press "Enter," and the computer will respond with the new date setting.

4. Press "Enter" to accept the date displayed. Close the window.

Changing the Time

1. From the "Start" button, choose "Run" and enter "cmd.exe" in the text box. A window will open and the cursor will be at the command prompt.

2. Type "time." The computer will respond with the current time setting and invite you to set a new time.

3. Change the time by entering it in the same format as the time setting you were shown. For example, to change the time to 2:00 p.m., type "14:00:00. It's not necessary to enter fractions of a second. Press "Enter," and the computer will respond with the new time setting.

4. Press "Enter" to accept the time displayed. Close the window.

Tips & Warnings

• Computers use the 24-hour time format in which hours between noon and midnight are indicated by numbers larger than 12.

• Be cautious when entering commands from the command prompt. It's possible to make changes to your computer that will cause it to quit working.

Resources

• For a list of MS-DOS commands, visit TechiWarehouse.