U/switch in command

Question

Trying to run cmdkey /generic: target to find a password and keep getting message change U/switch or smartcard.

Is there a workaround for this?

Thanks

Answer 1

The cmdkey command can be used to view saved passwords. Using the following command will list all the credential information saved on the computer, including usernames and passwords:

cmdkey /list 

After executing the above command, the saved credential list will be displayed, including their names and types. If the credential is a generic credential, it may contain password information.

Please note that in order to successfully view passwords, you need to have the appropriate permissions. Additionally, for security reasons, passwords are typically stored in encrypted form to protect user privacy and security. Therefore, even if you are able to view saved credentials, the passwords will not be displayed in plaintext.

If you want to view detailed information for a specific credential, you can use the following command:

cmdkey /generic:targetname 

Replace **targetname** with the name or identifier of the credential you want to view.

Please be cautious when using the cmdkey command to view saved passwords and ensure that you execute it in a trusted environment to protect the security of your computer and personal information.

Answer 2

Thanks for the reply

I have input what you suggested,the reply was

CMDKEY: Credential added successfully.

I am.still unable to find my password for the target.

Cheers

Ian

Answer 3

Hello Ian,

Good to see you in Microsoft Community.

The error message you're receiving, "change /U switch or smartcard" indicates that the command syntax you're using with cmdkey is incorrect. The correct syntax for the cmdkey command is as follows:

cmdkey /generic:target /user:username /pass:password 

Here's an example of how to use the cmdkey command to store credentials for a target:

cmdkey /generic:target /user:username /pass:password 

Replace "target" with the name or IP address of the target for which you want to store the credentials. Replace "username" with the actual username, and "password" with the corresponding password.

Visit cmdkey | Microsoft Learn for more details.

If you're still encountering issues after using the correct syntax, ensure that you have administrative privileges on your system. Running the Command Prompt as an administrator (right-click on Command Prompt and select "Run as administrator") might help resolve any permission-related problems.

If the issue persists, it's possible that your system or security settings may be preventing the use of cmdkey. In such cases, you may need to consult with your system administrator or IT support for further assistance or alternative methods to store and retrieve credentials.

If anything is unclear, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Best Regards,

Mosken_L - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist