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Command Prompt autocomplete is a handy feature that saves time by suggesting file and folder names as you type. When it stops working in Windows 11, it can slow down your workflow and cause frustration. Fortunately, fixing this issue is usually straightforward.

This guide will walk you through simple and detailed steps to restore autocomplete functionality. You don’t need to be a tech expert; just follow along carefully.

By the end, you should have Command Prompt autocomplete working smoothly again, improving your productivity and ease of use.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into fixes.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before trying any fixes, make sure your system meets these basic conditions:

• Check if Autocomplete is Enabled: Sometimes the feature is disabled by mistake. We’ll show you how to verify this below.
• Use the Correct Keyboard Shortcut: Autocomplete in Command Prompt works with the Tab key. Ensure you are pressing it correctly.
• Run Command Prompt as Administrator: Some settings require administrator privileges to change.
• Windows Updates: Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date because some bugs get fixed through updates.

Step 1: Enable Command Completion via Registry Editor

Sometimes, the autocomplete feature is turned off in the Windows Registry. Here is how to check and enable it:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor. If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes.
3. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:
   HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftCommand Processor
4. Look for the value named CompletionChar. If it is missing or set to 0, autocomplete won’t work.
5. Double-click CompletionChar and set its value to 9 (this corresponds to the Tab key).
6. Similarly, check for PathCompletionChar and set it to 9 if necessary.
7. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Why this matters: These registry values control the keyboard input for autocomplete. Setting them correctly enables the feature.

Step 2: Use Command Prompt Properties to Enable Autocomplete

This is a simpler method that doesn’t involve the Registry Editor.

1. Open Command Prompt by pressing Win + S, typing cmd, and selecting it from the results.
2. Right-click the title bar of the Command Prompt window and select Properties.
3. Under the Options tab, look for the Edit Options section.
4. Make sure Enable Ctrl key shortcuts and especially Enable line wrapping selection are checked. While line wrapping itself is unrelated, sometimes enabling all options helps reset the input behavior.
5. Click OK to save changes.
6. Close and reopen Command Prompt to test if autocomplete works by typing a partial command or folder name and pressing the Tab key.

Why this helps: Some input features rely on these options to function properly. Checking them can restore autocomplete without complex steps.

Step 3: Reset Command Prompt Settings to Default

If previous steps don’t work, resetting Command Prompt settings to default can remove any misconfiguration.

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and open Registry Editor.
2. Navigate to:
   HKEY_CURRENT_USERConsole
3. Right-click the Console folder and select Export (to back up current settings).
4. After backing up, right-click again and select Delete to remove the folder.
5. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer.
6. Open Command Prompt. The system will recreate default settings, which often restores autocomplete.

Note: Deleting registry keys can be risky if you don’t back them up. Always export before deleting.

Alternative Method: Use Windows PowerShell or Windows Terminal

If Command Prompt autocomplete still fails, consider using alternatives like Windows PowerShell or Windows Terminal, which have more advanced autocomplete features built-in.

• Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal or Windows PowerShell.
• Try typing a command and use the Tab key to see if autocomplete works.
• These tools often provide better autocomplete support and might be a suitable replacement.

FAQs

Why is my Command Prompt autocomplete not working after a Windows update?

Updates can sometimes reset settings or introduce bugs. Checking autocomplete settings and registry keys usually fixes the problem.

Can I enable autocomplete for Command Prompt without editing the registry?

Yes, enabling relevant options in the Command Prompt Properties is a safer way to try first, but some cases require registry changes.

What does the CompletionChar registry value do?

It defines the key code that triggers autocomplete. Setting it to 9 assigns the Tab key for this function.

Is deleting the Console registry key safe?

It resets Command Prompt settings to default. Backing up the key before deletion is essential to avoid losing custom configurations.

Can third-party software interfere with Command Prompt autocomplete?

Yes, some software that modifies keyboard input or command line behavior might cause issues. Try disabling such programs temporarily.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions restore autocomplete, consider these final steps:

• Create a New User Account: Sometimes profile-specific issues cause problems. Creating and switching to a new account can help.
• Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run sfc /scannow to repair corrupted system files.
• Use Official Microsoft Support: Visit the Microsoft Support site for additional help.
• Reset or Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, resetting or reinstalling Windows 11 can fix persistent issues.

Conclusion

Autocomplete in Command Prompt is a simple yet powerful tool that enhances your command line experience. When it stops working in Windows 11, it’s usually due to disabled settings or registry misconfigurations.

By following the step-by-step instructions above—from enabling registry values, adjusting Command Prompt properties, to resetting settings—you can typically restore autocomplete functionality quickly.

If these methods don’t fix the problem, exploring alternatives like Windows Terminal or seeking advanced support is recommended. Remember to back up important data and registry keys before making changes.

With these solutions, you can get back to efficient and smooth command line usage in no time.