PsTools

The PsTools suite comprises a range of command-line utilities that enable tasks such as listing processes running on local or remote computers, remote process execution, computer rebooting, event log dumping, and various other functionalities.

The Windows NT and Windows 2000 Resource Kits provide a variety of command-line tools for administering Windows NT/2000 systems. As time passed, I gathered a collection of similar tools, including some that were not included in the Resource Kits. What distinguishes these tools is their ability to manage both local and remote systems.

The initial tool in this collection was PsList, which allows you to access detailed information about processes. Since then, the suite has expanded continuously. I chose to use the "Ps" prefix in all the tools' names to establish a cohesive suite called PsTools, inspired by the naming convention of the standard UNIX process listing command-line tool, "ps".

The tools included in the PsTools suite, which is downloadable as a package, are:

• PsExec - execute processes remotely
• PsFile - shows files opened remotely
• PsGetSid - display the SID of a computer or a user
• PsInfo - list information about a system
• PsPing - measure network performance
• PsKill - kill processes by name or process ID
• PsList - list detailed information about processes
• PsLoggedOn - see who's logged on locally and via resource sharing (full source is included)
• PsLogList - dump event log records
• PsPasswd - changes account passwords
• PsService - view and control services
• PsShutdown - shuts down and optionally reboots a computer
• PsSuspend - suspends processes
• PsUptime - shows you how long a system has been running since its last reboot (PsUptime's functionality has been incorporated into PsInfo)

FAQ

Q: Do I need to install any software on the remote computers to use PsTools?
A: No, it does not require any client software installation on the remote computers. Simply run the tools from your local machine.

Q: Can I manage both local and remote systems using PsTools?
A: Yes, it allows you to manage both local and remote systems. You can perform various tasks on remote computers without physically accessing them.

Q: How can I obtain detailed usage information for PsTools?
A: To view complete usage information, simply specify the "-?" command-line option when running any PsTools utility. It will provide detailed instructions on usage and available options.

Q: Is there a graphical interface available for PsTools?
A: It primarily operates through the command-line interface, which may require some learning curve. However, it offers powerful capabilities for system administration and management.

Q: Where can I find support or get help with PsTools-related queries?
A: If you have any questions or encounter issues while using PsTools, you can visit the Sysinternals PsTools forum. It's an active community where you can seek assistance and find solutions to your problems.

Runs on:

• Client: Windows 8.1 and higher
• Server: Windows Server 2012 and higher
• Nano Server: 2016 and higher

Installation

No special installation is necessary for any of these tools. There is no requirement to install client software on the targeted remote computers. Simply run the tools by typing their names along with any desired command-line options. To obtain comprehensive usage information, include the "-?" command-line option. If you have any questions or encounter issues, you can visit the Sysinternals PsTools forum for assistance.

PROS

• Remote Management
• Versatile Functionality
• No Installation Required
• Comprehensive Usage Information
• Active Support Community

CONS

• Limited Graphical Interface
• Command-Line Learning Curve
• Potential Security Concerns
• Dependency on Network Connectivity

Note: some anti-virus scanners report that one or more of the tools are infected with a "remote admin" virus. None of the PsTools contain viruses, but they have been used by viruses, which is why they trigger virus notifications.