Hacking Windows into *nix
May 24th, 2006[ Geek ]
It’s interesting to see the volume of keyboard based “apps” being built for windows. Example, slickrun “gives you almost instant access to any program or website. SlickRun allows you to create command aliases (known as MagicWords), so C:\Program Files\Outlook Express\msimn.exe becomes MAIL.”
Great idea, however, these classes of “apps” are simply watered down versions of a shell. They offer you 1/1000th of what a shell will give you. Type this into a shell, or add to a config file:
alias mail=”C:\Program Files\Outlook Express\msimn.exe”
And mail becomes “C:\Program Files\Outlook Express\msimn.exe”.
These windows apps are gateway drugs and if you’re enjoying the freedom they offer, treat yourself and get the real thing. Similarly to the vi scenario, once you get used to the power you have in a shell it’s difficult to ever turn back. Most IDE’s are a pretty way to get limited access to vi. These apps are a pretty way to get limited access to the shell. Just go to the source.