WinUtils is a collection of command line interface (CLI) utilities created for Windows 95 that use the Windows shell APIs to perform file operations such as copy, move, delete, and rename [1, 2]. Unlike traditional file I/O approaches, WinUtils relies on the Windows shell function SHFileOperation to execute actions, preserving user interface features like confirmation dialogs, progress bars, and Recycle Bin support for undoing deletions [1, 2].
The tools were originally developed in 1996-1997 as a programming exercise to build CLI utilities that call the Windows 95 shell APIs rather than directly manipulating files via raw I/O [1, 2]. The utilities included wincopy, winmove, windel, and winren, with command-line switches mapped closely to the underlying SHFileOperation flags [1].
One notable feature is that files deleted using the windel command are moved to the Recycle Bin, allowing users to undo deletions from within Windows Explorer [1]. This integration maintained the typical user experience of file management while operating through the command line.
Recently, the original WinUtils executables and source code were rediscovered and republished on GitHub by Code Naked, helping to preserve and reintroduce these legacy tools to the public [2]. This release offers enthusiasts and developers insight into early Windows shell programming approaches.
The republished code includes complete source and binaries, enabling examination and potential use on vintage systems or for educational purposes. The availability of WinUtils on GitHub marks a concrete step in documenting early Windows 95 CLI tool development and its use of shell APIs.