AutoHotkey (AHK)

AutoHotkey (AHK)

1656

Information

Version:
2.0.3
License:
0
OS:
Windows
Architecture:
64-bit

AutoHotkey (AHK) is a powerful open-source scripting language and automation tool for Windows. Created in 2003, it allows users to automate repetitive tasks, create custom keyboard shortcuts, and write scripts to control various aspects of their computer.

With AHK, users can create simple hotkeys to launch programs, type frequently used text, or perform complex operations involving multiple steps. The language supports working with windows, files, and system functions, making it versatile for both basic and advanced automation needs.

Key features of AutoHotkey include:

  • Custom keyboard shortcuts
  • Text expansion and auto-correction
  • Mouse automation
  • Window management
  • GUI creation
  • File operations
  • System monitoring

AutoHotkey is particularly popular among power users, programmers, and professionals who want to optimize their workflow and increase productivity. Its simple syntax makes it accessible for beginners, while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

The program is free to use and has a large community that provides support, shares scripts, and creates useful tools and extensions.


AspectDescription
Basic Information
Full Name AutoHotkey (AHK)
Type Free and open-source scripting language
Created by Chris Mallett
Initial Release November 2003
Latest Version v2.0 (as of 2023)
Operating System Windows
License GNU GPLv2
Key Features
Hotkeys Create custom keyboard shortcuts
Hotstrings Text expansion and auto-replacement
GUI Creation Build custom graphical user interfaces
Window Manipulation Control and automate windows
Mouse Control Automate mouse movements and clicks
Process Management Launch, close, and manage applications
File Operations Read, write, and manage files
String Manipulation Process and modify text strings
Common Use Cases
Automation Repetitive tasks automation
Text Expansion Quick text insertion and replacement
Gaming Custom gaming macros and scripts
Productivity Workflow optimization tools
System Control Computer management and control
Script Syntax
File Extension .ahk
Comments ; (single line), /* */ (multi-line)
Variables No declaration needed, case-insensitive
Arrays Supported (1-based indexing)
Functions Built-in and user-defined supported
Key Commands
^ Control key modifier
! Alt key modifier
+ Shift key modifier
# Windows key modifier
Send Send keystrokes
MsgBox Display message boxes
Built-in Functions
FileRead/FileWrite File operations
WinActivate Window activation
SetTimer Scheduled tasks
RegRead/RegWrite Registry operations
UrlDownload Internet downloads
Development Tools
Script Editor SciTE4AutoHotkey
Debugger Built-in debug features
Compiler Ahk2Exe (create standalone executables)
Community Resources
Official Website autohotkey.com
Documentation docs.autohotkey.com
Forums autohotkey.com/boards
Code Sharing GitHub, AutoHotkey community
Advantages
Easy Learning Curve Simple syntax for beginners
Powerful Features Advanced capabilities for experts
Active Community Large user base and support
Free to Use No licensing costs
Limitations
Platform Windows-only support
Performance Not ideal for heavy processing
Security Can be flagged by antivirus software
Version Differences
v1.1 Classic version, widely used
v2.0 Modern syntax, improved performance
Unicode Support Full Unicode in v2.0
Expression Syntax Enhanced in v2.0