The command: "NET HELP FILE" is on Windows 12, 11, 10, .. , MS Server 2025, 2022, 2019, .. available
The examples for the command "NET HELP FILE"
The
`NET FILE` command is used in the Windows command line (
`cmd`) to obtain information about open files on a network share. Here are examples of how to use this command, along with detailed descriptions:
Example 1: View all open files on a network share
net file
Description:
This command lists all open files on the local computer on a network share. The output contains information such as the file number (ID), user name, locks, and file path.
Example 2: Display detailed information about a specific open file
net file 1234
Description:
More detailed information about the open file with file number 1234 is displayed here. Replace the number with the actual file number obtained via
`net file`.
Example 3: Closing an open file by file number
net file 5678 /close
Description:
This command closes the open file with file number 5678. This can be useful if you want to ensure that a file is no longer used by a user.
Example 4: View open files on a remote computer
net file /remote \\RemoteComputer
Description:
The list of open files on the remote computer named
"RemoteComputer" is displayed here. The
`/remote` parameter specifies that the action should be performed on another computer.
Example 5: View open files in detail on a remote computer
net file /remote \\RemoteComputer /detail
Description:
This command displays detailed information about the files open on the remote computer. The
`/detail` parameter specifies that additional details should be displayed.
Example 6: Closing all open files on a share
net file /closeall
Description:
This command closes all open files on all shares on the local computer. This can be helpful when maintenance needs to be performed.
Example 7: View open files on a specific share
net file /server:ServerName /share:ShareName
Description:
This shows the list of open files on the share
"ShareName" on the server named
"ServerName". Replace the names with the actual names.
Please note that the availability of certain options may vary depending on the version of Windows. You can use
`NET FILE /?` in the command prompt to check the specific options and syntax details.
"NET HELP FILE" Excerpt from Microsoft Windows Help
Microsoft Windows [Version 10.0.19045.3693]
(c) Copyright 1985-2023 Microsoft Corp.
C:\\WINDOWS>
The syntax of this command is:
NET FILE
[id [/CLOSE]]
NET FILE closes a shared file and removes file locks. When used without
options, it lists the open files on a server. The listing includes the
identification number assigned to an open file, the pathname of the file,
the username, and the number of locks on the file.
This command works only on computers running the Server service.
id Is the identification number of the file.
/CLOSE Closes an open file and removes file locks. Type this command
from the server where the file is shared.
NET HELP command | MORE displays Help one screen at a time.
Important information, tips for the "NET HELP FILE" command
When using the `NET FILE` command on the Windows command line, you should note the following points:
1. Administrative Privileges:
- Running `NET FILE` requires administrative privileges. Make sure you open Command Prompt as an administrator to access all necessary resources.
2. Use correct syntax:
- Be sure to use the correct syntax for the `NET FILE` command, especially when using additional options. Incorrect syntax can lead to errors.
3. Understanding file numbers:
- The output of `NET FILE` contains file numbers (IDs) associated with specific open files. Understand how these IDs can be used when you want to close specific files.
4. Be careful when closing files:
- Closing open files (`NET FILE /CLOSE` or `NET FILE /CLOSE`) should be done with caution as this may impact running processes. Make sure the closure is necessary.
5. Information about remote computers:
- If you are running `NET FILE` on a remote computer (`NET FILE /REMOTE`), check whether you have the required permissions on the remote computer and whether the remote computer supports the command.
6. Observe safety aspects:
- Be sure to handle open file information responsibly, as this may reveal security-sensitive details.
7. Check network shares:
- Make sure the network shares targeted by the `NET FILE` command are properly configured and accessible.
8. Undoing changes:
- Make sure you know how to undo changes, especially when closing files or performing other actions.
9. Use test environment:
- If possible, test the `NET FILE` command in a test environment to minimize impact on the production environment and verify expected behavior.
10. Compatibility with Windows versions:
- Available options and behaviors may vary depending on the version of Windows. Make sure your commands are compatible with the specific version of the operating system.
By paying attention to these points, you can use the `NET FILE` command safely and effectively in your environment.
