cmdkey is a built-in Windows command-line tool that manages stored usernames and passwords directly inside the Windows Credential Manager.
Automating network logins with cmdkey allows scripts to authenticate with remote file shares (net use), Remote Desktop connections (mstsc), or internal sites without interrupting the user for credentials. 🔑 Core Commands for Automation Open Command Prompt or PowerShell to use the tool. Add Credentials: Saves a password for a target server.
cmdkey /add:ServerNameOrIP /user:DomainOrComputer\Username /pass:YourPassword Use code with caution.
List Stored Credentials: Displays all entries saved under the current user account. cmdkey /list Use code with caution.
Delete Credentials: Removes cached access to a specific target. cmdkey /delete:ServerNameOrIP Use code with caution. 🚀 Automation Workflow Examples 1. Mapping a Network Drive Without Prompting
By pre-loading the credential cache with cmdkey, the subsequent connection command consumes the identity silently.
:: Step 1: Inject credentials into Credential Manager cmdkey /add:192.168.1.50 /user:WorkgroupName\admin01 /pass:Secret123 :: Step 2: Connect seamlessly without passing cleartext parameters net use Z: \192.168.1.50\SharedFolder /persistent:no Use code with caution. 2. Launching Silent Remote Desktop (RDP) Sessions
Automated testing or kiosk systems can kick off RDP sessions seamlessly.
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