How to check if xp_cmdshell is enabled or not? Read the article to find out. Bobcares, as a part of our Microsoft SQL Server Support Service offers solutions to every query that comes our way.

How to Check XP_CMDSHELL is Enabled or Not?

An enhanced stored procedure in SQL Server called xp_cmdshell enables the execution of system commands from within a Transact-SQL (T-SQL) batch or script. It gives SQL Server users the ability to communicate with the underlying operating system and execute operating system instructions. It should be used cautiously since, although it may be an effective tool for some administrative chores, it also presents serious security dangers.

We must run the following steps to find if the xp_cmdshell is enabled or not:

1. Initially, make sure we use an account with admin access to connect to the SQL Server instance.

2. Open the chosen query tool, such as SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).

3. Run the following query:

In the result set, look for the “run_value” column. If it has a value of 1, xp_cmdshell is active. It disables xp_cmdshell if it is set to 0. We can use the following steps to enable xp_cmdshell if it is disabled:

4. Run the following command to enable xp_cmdshell:

5. After running the above command, xp_cmdshell will be enabled. So, by executing the preceding query again, we can confirm that the “run_value” is set to 1.

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Conclusion

There are possible security concerns while activating xp_cmdshell, so proceed with caution. It is advised that non-administrative accounts should only be permitted to access it when essential.