Control commands are instructions used in computer programming and software applications to manage the behavior of a system or device. They allow users to perform specific actions, such as starting or stopping a process, adjusting settings, or retrieving information. Control commands can be executed through various interfaces, including command-line interfaces and graphical user interfaces. In the context of operating systems, control commands help users interact with the system efficiently. For example, in Linux, commands like "ls" list files, while "cd" changes directories. These commands are essential for navigating and managing files, making them a fundamental part of using a computer effectively.