One of a number of parameters that may be set for Unix tool programs, each specifying special instructions (e.g, with the sort tool, sort -rn specifies everse umeric sort). Each program has its own unique array of possible switches, invoked on the command-line before arguments, using a switch prefix (normally minus sign "-") before the individual letters indicating the switch settings, thus resembling clitics on the command verb. May be set by menu or checkbox in a GUI. Also called options or preferences.

An instruction, added to a command, that designates a course of action, other than default, for the command process to follow.

A command switch is an option that a command uses to change what it's doing and how it's doing it. Most switches are specified starting with a slash (/) or a hyphen (-), followed by a single letter.

An option that modifies the way in which the computer carries out a command.

Switches are used to change the behavior of programs, and are also called command-line options or arguments. To determine if a program has optional switches that can be used, read the man pages or try to pass the --help switch to the program (i.e.. program --help).

Switches are used by people with mobility impairments who cannot use a standard keyboard. Users operate the switch by tapping or squeezing it. A switch has two modes: on and off. A pattern of on/off clicks allows people to work with a computer. Although a switch supports basic keyboard commands, it does not allow users to control a mouse.

The part of a command string defining the type of an argument. It is preceded by a hyphen.

A value you can add to a command to control the manner in which the command is carried out. For example, in DOS, you can use the switch with the COPY command to have DOS verify that the copied files are exact duplicates of the originals.