Git Bash is a powerful command-line tool that provides a Unix-style shell experience on Windows. It’s an essential utility for developers working with Git version control and Linux commands on a Windows machine.
If you’re new to Git Bash or just need a quick refresher on how to open it, this guide will walk you through the simple steps.
What Is Git Bash?
Git Bash combines Git command line features with Bash shell commands, allowing you to run Git commands as well as common Unix utilities like ls, cat, and grep on Windows.
It is installed as part of Git for Windows.
How to Open Git Bash on Windows
Method 1: From the Start Menu
- Click on the Start button or press the Windows key.
- Type Git Bash in the search bar.
- Click on the Git Bash app to open it.
Method 2: From the Desktop or Taskbar Shortcut
- If you selected shortcuts during Git installation, double-click the Git Bash icon on your desktop.
- Or, click the Git Bash icon pinned to your taskbar.
Method 3: Open Git Bash in a Specific Folder
To open Git Bash directly inside a specific folder:
- Open File Explorer and navigate to your desired folder.
- Right-click inside the folder (not on a file).
- Select Git Bash Here from the context menu.
This opens Git Bash with the current folder as your working directory, saving time when working on projects.
Method 4: Using Windows Terminal
If you use Windows Terminal, you can add Git Bash as a profile and open it from there:
- Open Windows Terminal
- Click the dropdown arrow next to the tab bar
- Select Git Bash (if configured)
Troubleshooting
- If you don’t see Git Bash in your Start menu, you might need to download and install Git for Windows.
- During installation, make sure to enable the option “Git Bash Here” for the context menu.
Summary
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Start Menu | Windows key → type “Git Bash” → Enter |
| Desktop/Taskbar Shortcut | Double-click Git Bash icon |
| Context Menu in Explorer | Right-click folder → Git Bash Here |
| Windows Terminal | Open terminal → Select Git Bash profile |
Final Thoughts
Git Bash is a handy tool for Windows users who want the power of Git and Unix-like command-line utilities. Opening it is quick and straightforward, especially with the handy Git Bash Here option in File Explorer.
