How to use the command 'subst' (with examples)

The ‘subst’ command in Windows associates a path with a virtual drive letter. This allows you to access a particular directory as a virtual drive, making it easier to navigate and access files within that directory. It can be useful in situations where you frequently need to access a specific directory and want to avoid typing the full path each time.

Use case 1: List active associations

Code:

subst

Motivation: This use case allows you to see a list of the active associations between drive letters and paths. It can be helpful to check the existing associations before making any changes or modifications to avoid conflicts.

Explanation: The ‘subst’ command without any arguments lists the active associations between drive letters and paths.

Example output:

Z:\: => C:\Python2.7

Use case 2: Add an association

Code:

subst Z: C:\Python2.7

Motivation: This use case allows you to add a new association between a virtual drive letter (‘Z:’) and a directory path (‘C:\Python2.7’). Once the association is added, you can access the files and folders within the specified directory using the virtual drive letter instead of typing the full path.

Explanation: The ‘subst’ command followed by the virtual drive letter (Z:) and the directory path (C:\Python2.7) creates a new association between the two. The virtual drive letter (‘Z:’) becomes the shortcut to access the specified directory path (‘C:\Python2.7’).

Example output: No output is typically shown for a successful association creation.

Use case 3: Remove an association

Code:

subst Z: /d

Motivation: This use case allows you to remove an existing association between a virtual drive letter and a directory path. If you no longer need to access a specific directory as a virtual drive, removing the association can help declutter and organize your virtual drives.

Explanation: The ‘subst’ command followed by the virtual drive letter (Z:) and the ‘/d’ argument removes the association between the two. The virtual drive letter (‘Z:’) will no longer be associated with the previously assigned directory path.

Example output: No output is typically shown for a successful association removal.

Conclusion:

The ‘subst’ command in Windows provides a convenient way to associate a path with a virtual drive letter, allowing for easier and quicker access to specific directories. It can be helpful for managing and organizing your file system, especially when dealing with frequently accessed directories.