Generic SQL action template for executing a command

To configure a generic SQL statement that executes a command, select the "Invoke an External Application" option in the list of generic SQL action templates:

master..xp_cmdshell '<Your Command>', no_output

In the syntax, replace <Your Command> with the desired command. Be sure to enclose the command in single quotes. For example:

master..xp_cmdshell 'dir *.exe', no_output

The xp_cmdshell extended stored procedure does not start a Windows application. You can only execute simple DOS commands, batch files or executables (.EXEs) that do not display a user-interface window.

You must have the correct permissions set for the xp_cmdshell extended stored procedure for it to run. For more information, see your Microsoft SQL Server documentation.