# KiXtart

> logon script processor and enhanced batch scripting language

**Wikidata**: [Q1477376](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1477376)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KiXtart)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kixtart

## Summary
KiXtart is a logon script processor and enhanced batch scripting language designed for the Microsoft Windows operating system. Inaugurated in 1991, it is classified as a careware automation tool used to manage run-time events. It is identifiable by its `.kix` file extension and specific tokenized script formats.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** KiXtart is an instance of a scripting language and automation tool.
- **Primary Function:** It serves as a logon script processor and an enhanced batch scripting language.
- **Operating System:** It runs exclusively on Microsoft Windows.
- **Inception:** The language was originally created in 1991.
- **License:** The software is distributed as careware.
- **File Extension:** Scripts utilize the `.kix` file extension.
- **Current Version:** Version 4.67 was noted as of October 10, 2016.
- **Website:** The official community site is located at `http://www.kixtart.org`.
- **Compatibility:** The language supports multiple formats including KiXtart tokenized script, tokenized script with password, and SPK notation format.

## FAQs
### Q: What is KiXtart used for?
A: KiXtart is used as a logon script processor and scripting language for automating run-time events on Microsoft Windows. It provides enhanced batch scripting capabilities for system administration.

### Q: What file extension does KiXtart use?
A: KiXtart scripts use the `.kix` file extension. The software also supports specific formats such as KiXtart tokenized scripts and SPK notation format.

### Q: Is KiXtart free to use?
A: Yes, but it is specifically categorized as "careware," a licensing model where the user is encouraged to donate to a charity.

## Why It Matters
KiXtart holds a distinct place in the history of Windows system administration. Originating in 1991, it addressed the need for more robust automation tools than standard batch files could offer at the time. As a "logon script processor," it became a vital utility for network administrators needing to automate tasks during the user login process, such as mapping drives or checking system variables.

Its design as an "enhanced batch scripting language" allowed for complex logic and run-time event handling that went beyond the limitations of standard DOS batching. By being distributed as careware, it also established a community-driven ethos around the tool. Its continued presence—documented in multiple languages including German, English, French, Portuguese, Russian, and Chinese—underscores its sustained utility in specific IT environments even decades after its inception.

## Notable For
- **Enhanced Scripting:** Providing advanced logic capabilities beyond standard Windows batch files.
- **Longevity:** Maintaining relevance since its inception in 1991.
- **Careware Model:** Being distributed under a philanthropic licensing model rather than standard commercial or open-source terms.
- **Specific Formats:** Utilizing distinct file formats, including tokenized scripts with password protection and SPK notation.

## Body

### Definition and Classification
KiXtart is defined strictly as a scripting language and an instance of automation software. It is categorized as a "logon script processor" and an enhanced batch scripting language. Its primary purpose is to facilitate programming for run-time events within a computing environment.

### Platform and Requirements
The software is designed exclusively for the Microsoft Windows family of operating systems. It relies on the Windows environment to execute its scripting functions for automation tasks.

### Technical Specifications
The language uses the file extension `.kix` for its scripts. The system is capable of processing and reading several specific file formats:
- KiXtart tokenized script
- KiXtart tokenized script (with password)
- KiXtart SPK notation format

### History and Licensing
KiXtart was established in 1991. The software is licensed as "careware." According to archived data, version 4.67 was in use as of October 10, 2016. The entity maintains a web presence at `kixtart.org` and has substantial documentation across various Wikipedia languages (de, en, fr, pt, ru, zh). Its identifiers include a Freebase ID (`/m/04xdsc`) and a former Microsoft Academic ID (`2780216215`).

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013