What is the function of command prompt files like .cmd or .ps1?

The function of command prompt files like .cmd or .ps1 is to execute a series of commands from the operating system. These file types are scripts that contain commands which can be run in the command line environment.

For instance, a file with the .cmd extension is typically used in Windows and contains a list of commands that can automate tasks or execute complex instructions within the command prompt. Similarly, .ps1 files are PowerShell scripts used in Windows environments, which allow for more powerful and flexible scripting capabilities than traditional command prompts. PowerShell scripts can also run a series of commands and manage system tasks more efficiently.

This makes it clear that the purpose of command prompt files is to facilitate automation and streamline operations performed in the command line, rather than creating graphical interfaces, compiling code, or managing databases.