How to add a set path only for that batch file executing?

Question

Basically, I know I can go through my control panel and modify the path variable. But, I'm wondering if there is a way to through batch programming have a temporary path included? That way it is only used during that batch file execution. I don't want to have people go in and modify their path variables just to use my batch file.

Answer 1

Just like any other environment variable, with SET:

SET PATH=%PATH%;c:whateverelse

If you want to have a little safety check built in first, check to see if the new path exists first:

IF EXIST c:whateverelse SET PATH=%PATH%;c:whateverelse

If you want that to be local to that batch file, use setlocal:

setlocal
set PATH=...
set OTHERTHING=...

@REM Rest of your script

Read the docs carefully for setlocal/endlocal , and have a look at the other references on that site - Functions is pretty interesting too and the syntax is tricky.

The Syntax page should get you started with the basics.