Cannot change directory using system() in C++ [duplicate]

Question

As the title says, I cannot use "cd" in even a super simple C++ program. More accurately, I CAN use it (i.e. it compiles and doesn't throw any errors) but it carries on as if I haven't.

My code is as follows:

#include <iostream>
#include <cstdlib>

int main()
{
    system("cd");
    system("dir");

    system("cd C:\\Users\\Sajado");
    system("dir");

    return 0;
}

The output window returns the directory listing of the project directory both times. I have also tried using paths other folders, both higher and lower, and cd .. has no effect either.

I am using codeblocks if that helps. I'm no C++ or cmd expert by any means so I may be missing something very obvious. Anyone know why this might be misbehaving?

Answer 1

As explained here, you need to do:

system("cd C:\\Users\\Sajado && dir");

Because

The changed directory only lasts for the duration of the system command. The command starts a separate program, which inherits its current directory from your program, but when that program exits its current directory dies with it.