How to Find a Subdirectory in DOS
DOS, otherwise known as "disc operating system," is the most rudimentary OS on most computers. While most people prefer the point-and-click approach of Windows and other graphical user interface operating systems, using DOS to accomplish your computing goals can be somewhat rewarding, as you are instructing the computer on an individual level as opposed to using the sleek interface of modern operating systems as a go-between.
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Instructions
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Make your way into DOS by clicking on the "Start" button in the lower left corner of your screen. Click on the "Run" tab, then type in "DOS" or "MS-DOS" to open up a DOS prompt. Note that this will only work on versions of Windows up to and including Windows XP. If you have a computer that runs Windows Vista or Windows 7, you are out of luck--after XP, Microsoft removed the ability to navigate into DOS.
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Use the "DIR" command to print out a list of the available files and subdirectories available from your current location. The DOS prompt should initially read something along the lines of C:/Windows, with a flashing cursor following. "DIR" tells the computer that you want to see all of the files and directories present within that current folder.
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Locate the subdirectory you need in the list and access it by using the "CD" command. "CD" stands for "change directory" and it is the DOS command used to move from one directory to another. Simply type in "CD," followed by a single space, followed by the full name of your chosen subdirectory to enter it. For example, if you wanted to access the "Files" subdirectory, you would type in "CD Files," then hit "Enter."
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Tips & Warnings
If you want to get out of the subdirectory, typing "CD.." (cd with two periods following it) will take you one directory back. You can continue using the "CD.." command as long as needed to continue moving back through the various folders you are in.
