Startparameter

Startparameter, often called startup parameters or command-line arguments, are input values supplied to a program at the moment it starts. They can influence application behavior, enable or disable features, select resources, or provide configuration data without requiring interactive input. Startparameters are commonly passed via the command line, by shortcuts that launch the program with a predefined argument list, or by wrapper scripts that assemble the required options.

On program entry, the runtime provides these values to the code that starts the application, typically as arguments to the main function (for example argc and argv in C/C++) or as a parsed command-line string in platform-specific entry points. Arguments are separated by whitespace, and quotes may be used to include spaces. Many programs support switches or options in forms such as -config path, --verbose, or /silent, with both short and long forms in use depending on the platform and the application.

Practical considerations include correct handling of file paths, escaping, and platform-specific path separators. Startparameters should be validated to avoid unintended behavior or security risks, especially if they influence file access, network activity, or feature toggles. Shortcuts and installers frequently embed start parameters to customize startup behavior, and some software provides a graphical interface to adjust them for users.

In development, start parameters are integral to the command-line interface and are typically tested alongside the rest of the input handling. They complement configuration files and environment variables by enabling dynamic control at launch time and by enabling automation, debugging, or scripted deployments.