Batch file

Updated: 03/10/2024 by Computer Hope

A batch file may refer to any of the following:

Batch file

1. A batch file or batch job is a collection, or list, of commands that are processed in sequence, often without requiring user input or intervention. With a computer running a Microsoft operating system such as Windows, a batch file is stored as a file with a .bat file extension. Other operating systems may define a batch job in a shell script, which contain a list of commands to be executed.

Batch files help load programs, run multiple processes, and perform common or repetitive tasks.

For example, a batch job could be used to back up files, process log files, run several calculations or diagnostics, or any other job that requiring multiple commands. A batch job can accomplish multiple tasks without interaction from the user, freeing up the user's time for other tasks.

Is a bat file dangerous?

Any file could be dangerous. If you're concerned about a bat file being infected, malicious, or harming the computer, ensure an antivirus program is installed and running and realize a file can be scanned individually. Also, realize a batch file could be nothing more than commands performing malicious actions such as deleting all your system files. An antivirus program would not warn you about these types of batch files. It'd be up to you to edit the batch file and see what commands it's performing.

2. The batch command is a Recovery Console command that executes several commands. See the batch command page for full information on this command.

Autoexec.bat, Automation, Operating system terms, Programming terms