
Step 1: Win + R to open the Run dialog.
Step 1:Windows PowerShell” in the Windows Search bar.
Step 3:
powershell Start-Process powershell -Verb runAs
Step 1: Open the Control Panel.
Step 2: “System and SecurityWindows Tools.”
Step 1: To open the quick access menu, right-click on Start or use the keyboard shortcut Win + X.
Join us as we dive into the steps and strategies to access PowerShell and unlock its powerful capabilities.
Run Windows PowerShell Using Task Manager
Step 1:Task Manager” in the search bar or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Step 2: Run new task.”
Step 1: Right-click on the desktop.
Step 2: NewShortcut
Step 3: “powershell.exe” as the location.
Step 4: Next” and give your shortcut a name.
Step 1: Click on the start button, then the search box, and type “Windows tools”.
Step 2: Then, Right-click on “Windows PowerShell” from the list.
Step 1: Open file explores by using the shortcut Win + E or type “File Explorer” on search bar
Step 2: Type the command in the File Explorer address bar and press Enter.
C:\Windows\System32\WindowsPowerShell\v1.0\
Being a robust scripting language and command-line shell than command prompt, PowerShell is a handy tool using cmdlets, which help automate Windows when you launch particular apps. Furthermore, PowerShell has become a default choice since Windows 10, and several ways exist to open it. Let’s get started with the ways!
Automate repetitive tasks for your Windows devices with custom scripting.
See what NinjaOne IT Automation can do for your business.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the importance of elevated permissions, the fundamentals of PowerShell, and provide you with a step-by-step roadmap to harnessing its power effectively.
What this article will cover:
- What is an Elevated PowerShell Prompt?
- Methods to Open an Elevated PowerShell Prompt in Windows 10/11
- Common Use Cases for an Elevated PowerShell Prompt
- Tips and Best Practices
Methods to open an elevated PowerShell prompt in Windows 10/11
Within this guide, we outline four distinct methods, each providing a route to elevate PowerShell privileges in Windows 10/11. Whether through the familiar Start Menu and Run dialog or with elevated PowerShell prompt command line entries, our step-by-step instructions will get you there.
Method 1: Using the Start Menu
- Click on the “Start” button located at the bottom-left corner of your screen or press the “Windows” key on your keyboard to open the Start Menu.
- In the search bar, type “PowerShell.”
- Right-click on “Windows PowerShell” in the search results.
Method 2: Using the Run dialog
- Press the “Windows” key + “R” on your keyboard to open the Run dialog.
- Type “powershell” into the Run dialog.
- Press “Ctrl” + “Shift” + “Enter” on your keyboard or press “OK” to open PowerShell with elevated privileges.
- An elevated PowerShell prompt will now open, allowing you to execute commands with elevated permissions.
Method 3: Using Command Prompt
- In the Command Prompt window, type “powershell” and press “Enter” to switch to PowerShell.
Method 4: Using the Task Manager
- Right-click on the taskbar and select “Task Manager” from the context menu, or press “Ctrl” + “Shift” + “Esc” on your keyboard to open Task Manager.
- In the Task Manager window, click on “File” in the menu bar.
- From the drop-down menu, select “Run new task.”
- Click “OK” to open an elevated PowerShell prompt.
- An elevated PowerShell prompt will now open, ready for you to execute commands with elevated permissions.
FAQs to Open Windows PowerShell
A number of PowerShell opening methods include via Run dialogue box, task manager, window search among other options even within file explorer. Every option is suitable for someone depending on there preference and convenience
Please to comment…
Executing PowerShell Scripts Remotely
Understanding these methods will enable you to efficiently and securely execute scripts on remote systems, further expanding the capabilities of PowerShell and allowing you to manage your IT environment with greater ease and precision.
Configuring WinRM for Remote Execution
To examine the WinRM service state, use the Test-WSMan command. If the remote computer is in a workgroup and a Public network profile is applied to the LAN connection, you’ll need to enable incoming WinRM traffic in Windows Firewall explicitly.
Using Invoke-Command for Remote Script Execution
Invoke-Command -ComputerName <computer_name> -ScriptBlock <script_path> | <PowerShell cmdlets> -Credential Domain\UserName
For example, if you want to run a script called “Get-EventLog.ps1” on a computer named “FileServer” with a parameter of “143”, you would type:
Invoke-Command -ComputerName FileServer -FilePath C:\Scripts\Get-EventLog.ps1 -ArgumentList "143"
Using Invoke-Command to execute scripts on remote computers provides a powerful and efficient way to manage remote systems and automate tasks across your network. You can also use any available PowerShell commands on the remote server:
Invoke-Command -ComputerName FileServer -ScriptBlock { Get-Service }
This script runs the Get-Service cmdlet, which returns all of the services installed on the remote computer.
Running a PowerShell Script from the Windows File Explorer
- Locate the script file in Windows Explorer.
- Right-click on the script file name and select “Run with PowerShell” from the context menu.

This will open a PowerShell window and execute the script.
Running PowerShell Scripts from the command prompt (CMD)
In addition to running PowerShell scripts from the PowerShell console, you can also run them from the command prompt. To run PowerShell scripts from the command prompt, you must use the PowerShell executable and pass the script as a parameter.
- Open a Command Prompt in the Windows Operating system.
- Type the following PowerShell command and press Enter:
powershell.exe -File "C:\Scripts\BackupScript.ps1" -noexit
Replace “C:\Scripts\BackupScript.ps1” with the actual path to your PowerShell script.

powershell.exe -File "C:\Temp\Deploy-Script.ps1" -ComputerName "App1","App2"
A step-by-step guide to running a PowerShell script
Now that you are familiar with the different ways to run a PowerShell script, let’s go through a step-by-step guide on how to run a ps1 file in PowerShell:
Step 1: Open PowerShell
To start PowerShell, search for “PowerShell” in the Start menu or use the Run dialog (Windows Key + R) and type “powershell”. This will start the PowerShell command-line shell to run your first PowerShell script.
Step 2: Navigate to the Folder
The most common way to execute a PowerShell script is from the PowerShell console. To do this, you’ll need to open the PowerShell terminal and navigate to the directory where the script is located.
This will change the working directory to the “C:\Scripts” folder.
Step 3: Run the script from the PowerShell console
Replace “GenerateRpt.ps1” with the actual name of your PowerShell script. This will execute the “GenerateRpt.ps1” file in the current directory.

If the script is in a different directory, you’ll need to provide the full path to the script file. You can also pass parameters to the script by adding them after the script name, separated by spaces.
If the script is located in a directory with a space in the name, you’ll need to enclose the path in double quotes:
.\"Path of the script with Spaces\FileName.ps1"
It’s worth noting that PowerShell requires you to explicitly specify the path to the script or use the dot-slash notation (.) for security reasons. This ensures that you’re running the intended script and not accidentally executing a malicious file with the same name.
You can also call a script in a specific path using the call operator “&”. For example, if your script is located in C:\Scripts\MyScript.ps1, you would run the below command:
&"C:\Scripts\MyScript.ps1"
Similarly, you can type and run commands directly in the PowerShell window (E.g., Get-Process).
Integrating PowerShell Scripts into Scheduled Tasks
To further streamline and automate your PowerShell tasks, you can integrate PowerShell scripts into scheduled tasks. Scheduled tasks are automated processes that can be programmed to run on a computer at predetermined times or intervals, allowing you to schedule the execution of your PowerShell scripts without manual intervention.
Setting up scheduled tasks saves time and effort by ensuring scripts are executed regularly. By integrating your PowerShell scripts into scheduled tasks, you can automate processes further and ensure efficient and consistent execution.
- Open Task Scheduler by typing “Task scheduler” in the window start menu.
- From the Actions menu, click on “Create a Basic Task”
- Give the task a name and description, and then click “Next”
- Choose the trigger for the task. This can be a specific time, a recurring schedule, or an event.
- Specify the action that the task should be performed. In this case, choose “Start a program”
- In the “Program/script” field, enter “PowerShell”
- In the “Add arguments (optional)” field, enter “-File [path to your PowerShell script]”
- Click “OK” to save the scheduled task.
What is an elevated PowerShell Prompt?
Elevated PowerShell Prompts
Key differences:
Run a Script from Another Script
. "C:\Users\Thomas\Documents\PowerShell\Get-FileSize.ps1" #Call the method defined in the another script file Get-FileSize "C:\Logs\AppLogs.txt"
The above script lets you call a function from another script in the current PowerShell session using dot sourcing.
Best practices for running PowerShell scripts
Understanding the script’s purpose and functionality
Before running a PowerShell script, take the time to understand its purpose and functionality. Review the script’s documentation or comments to ensure that it aligns with your requirements and doesn’t pose any security risks.
Testing the script before running it
Always test a PowerShell script in a controlled environment before running it in a production environment. This will help you identify any potential issues or unintended consequences.
Using error handling and logging
Implement error handling and logging mechanisms in your scripts to capture and gracefully handle errors. This will make troubleshooting and debugging much easier. Monitor script execution and log any errors or unexpected behavior for troubleshooting purposes.
Other Best Practices:
- Use descriptive variable names to make the code easier to understand.
- Use comments to explain the purpose of the script and each section of the code. Document the script so that others can understand and use it.
- Use functions to break up large scripts into smaller, more manageable pieces.
- Use consistent formatting to make the code easier to read.
- Use PowerShell modules to organize and reuse code.
- Use version control to track changes to the script over time.
- Document the script so that others can understand and use it.
- Continuously learn and improve your PowerShell skills by reading blogs, attending conferences, and participating in online communities.
Understanding the Execution Policy

Before you can run any PowerShell scripts, it’s important to understand and configure the execution policy. The execution policy determines the level of security for running scripts on your system. By default, PowerShell has a restricted execution policy, which prevents the execution of any scripts.
Why running PowerShell scripts may be disabled on your system
Let’s understand why you might encounter the “Running scripts is disabled on this system” error message when you try to run scripts on your system. By default, PowerShell has a security feature called “Execution Policy” that controls the level of trust for running scripts. This policy is in place to protect your system from running potentially malicious scripts.
Enabling running PowerShell scripts on your system
To enable running PowerShell scripts on your system, you need to modify the Execution Policy. There are different levels of Execution Policy that you can choose from, depending on your security requirements. Use the “Get-ExecutionPolicy” cmdlet to check the current execution policy on the device, such as Windows Server or PC. Here’s a brief rundown of the execution policies available:
- Restricted – No scripts can be run. Only PowerShell commands can be executed interactively. This is the default option.
- AllSigned – All the scripts must be digitally signed by a trusted publisher. Unsigned scripts are blocked (runs only signed scripts).
- RemoteSigned – Locally created scripts can run, but downloaded scripts must be signed. This is a standard policy for clients.
- Unrestricted – All scripts can run. This exposes your system to the most risk.
Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned
The above command sets the execution policy to “RemoteSigned,” which allows you to run scripts created on the local computer but requires a digital signature to run any script downloaded from the internet. You can choose other execution policies based on your security needs, such as “Unrestricted” or “AllSigned”. However, it’s important to note that changing the execution policy can pose security risks, so it’s best to choose a policy that balances security and convenience.
By-passing the execution policy by adding “-executionpolicy bypass” is also possible for a particular PowerShell file!
Wrapping up
How do I run a PowerShell script line by line?
To run a PowerShell script line by line, you can use the PowerShell Integrated Scripting Environment (ISE). Open the script in the ISE, select the lines you want to run, and then use the “Run Selection” button to execute the script one line at a time. You can execute individual lines by selecting them and pressing F8 as well.
Where to run the PowerShell script in Azure?
You can run PowerShell scripts in Azure using various methods such as Azure Cloud Shell, Azure PowerShell module, Azure Automation, Azure Functions, and Azure Virtual Machines. The choice of method depends on your specific requirements and the resources you are working with Azure.
How do I run a PowerShell script in Visual Studio 2019?
To run a PowerShell script in Visual Studio 2019, you must install the PowerShell Tools for Visual Studio extension first, then Open Visual Studio 2019 and create a new PowerShell project by clicking File > New > Project and selecting the PowerShell Script project. Once the script is ready, You can execute it by clicking the green “Play” button on the toolbar, which will execute the PowerShell script.
How to run a PowerShell script on startup?
How do you run a PowerShell script from another script?
There are several ways to run a PowerShell script from another script, including the call operator, the dot sourcing method, the Invoke-Expression cmdlet, or the Start-Process cmdlet. Here is how to use the Call Operator method: For example, if you have two scripts named “script1.ps1” and “script2.ps1” in the same directory, you can call “script2.ps1” from “script1.ps1” using the command: “& .\script2.ps1”
How do you create a batch file to run a PowerShell script?
How do I run a PowerShell script with parameters?
How to run a PowerShell script from cmd?
What Is PowerShell?
In this part, we will discuss what PowerShell is, its functions, features, filename extensions, and more. However, PowerShell is one of Microsoft’s best task automation and configuration management frameworks, which Windows 10 has as built-in.
- .ps1 (Script)
- .ps1xml (XML Document)
- .psc1 (Console File)
- .psd1 (Data File)
- .psm1 (Script Module)
- .pssc (Session Configuration File)
- .psrc (Role Capability File)
- .cdxml (Cmdlet Definition XML Document)
- Windows PowerShell 1.0
- Windows PowerShell 2.0
- Windows PowerShell 3.0
- Windows PowerShell 4.0
- Windows PowerShell 5.0
- Windows PowerShell 5.1
- PowerShell Core 6
- PowerShell 7
- PowerShell 7.2
Let’s have a look at the top features of the PowerShell scripting language:
- Error-handling: Similar to.NET language, Windows PowerShell offers the Try{ }, Catch { }, and Finally {} blocks as the error-handling mechanism.
- Tab expansion: By pressing the Tab key once, Tab expansion, a form of auto-completion, completes the names of the cmdlets, properties, and parameters.
- Desired state configuration: Being a top-notch feature of PowerShell, DSC provides a wide array of resources, language extensions, and cmdlets, which can be used to configure the software declaratively.
Running Scripts as administrator
- Type “PowerShell” or “PowerShell ISE” in the start menu Icon.
- Select “Run as administrator” from the context menu.

Run PowerShell as an Administrator Automatically
Start-Process powershell.exe -Verb runAs -ArgumentList "-File C:\Scripts\MyScript.ps1"
Running PS1 files as a different user
- Open a Command Prompt window as an administrator.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
runas /user:username powershell.exe -File "C:\Temp\YourScript.ps1"
How to Recover PowerShell Accidentally Deleted Files
Step 1. Choose the exact file location and then click the “Search for Lost Data” button to continue.
Step 2. After the process, locate the deleted or lost files in the left panel using the “Path” or “Type” feature. Or, you can apply the “Filter” feature to find the deleted files.
Step 3. Click the “Recover” button and save the restored files – ideally, it should be different from the original one. You can choose a cloud storage, such as OneDrive, Google Drive, etc., and click “Save” to save your recovered files.
FAQs
These are the detailed FAQs given below to get a better hold of PowerShell:
1. Is PowerShell and Python the same?
A: No, PowerShell and Python aren’t the same. It’s because PowerShell is a command line UI for Windows, often used as a leading part of a Python programmer’s development environment.
Well, PowerShell is a significant undertaking of the shells concept. Moreover, PowerShell offers a shell scripting environment for Windows and is a better fit if you decide to automate processes on the Windows platform. In contrast, Python is an interpreted high-level programming language.
2. How do I write a PowerShell script?
- Hit the start button.
- Look for Notepad, and hit the top result to open it.
- Paste your script or write a new one in the text file.
3. How do I run a file in PowerShell?
- Hit the start menu.
- Look for PowerShell by right-clicking on the top result and choosing the “Run as Administrator” option.
- Provide the following command to let scripts run and hit “Enter”: Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned.
- If applicable, type A, and hit Enter.
- To run the script, type the following command and hit Enter: & “C:\PATH\TO\SCRIPT\first_script.ps1“
Create a Shortcut to Run PowerShell Script
You can also create a shortcut to the script file and place it on your desktop or in any convenient location. Double-clicking the shortcut will run the script using PowerShell. Here is how to do that:
- Right-click on your script file in File Explorer >> Choose “Send to” > Select “Desktop (create shortcut)”
- Now, right-click on the shortcut created on your desktop >> In the “Target” Field, add “PowerShell”. E.g., “PowerShell C:\Scripts\GenRpt.ps1”.
- Click on “OK” to save your changes.
Now, if you double-click on the shortcut, the script will be executed. If you want to leave the window open without closing it automatically, use:
powershell -NoExit -File "C:\Scripts\GenRpt.ps1"
Troubleshooting Common Errors in Running PowerShell Scripts
Even with the best practices in place, PowerShell scripts can still fail. When this happens, it’s essential to know how to troubleshoot the script to identify and resolve the issue. Here are some common errors that you might encounter when running PowerShell scripts and how to troubleshoot them:
- Syntax errors: Check the syntax of the script to ensure that there are no errors in the code.
- Execution policy errors: Check the execution policy to ensure it allows scripts to run.
- Permissions errors: Check the permissions of the user running the script to ensure they have the necessary permissions to perform the task.
- Module errors: Check that any modules used by the script are installed correctly.
Common use cases for an elevated PowerShell prompt
Running system-related commands with administrative privileges
Installing and managing software packages
Configuring advanced system settings
Troubleshooting and diagnosing system issues
Get a rundown of essential custom Powershell scripting to reduce manual workloads and increase productivity.
Running PowerShell script from a batch file
Batch files, or .bat files, are script files used to automate tasks in Windows. You can use them to execute PowerShell scripts, allowing for even more automation possibilities. Here’s how to run PowerShell script:
- Open Notepad or any text editor.
- Type the below command and save the file with a .bat or .cmd extension:
powershell.exe -File "C:\Scripts\script.ps1"
Replace “C:\Scripts\script.ps1” with the actual path to your PowerShell script. More on Running PowerShell commands from the Batch files or executing batch files from PowerShell scripts is here: How to Run a Batch File from PowerShell Script?
How to Open PowerShell in Windows 11 (7 Ways)
In Windows 11, PowerShell provides a versatile platform to carry out tasks such as:
- ✨Automate tasks: PowerShell allows you to create scripts to automate repetitive tasks, making system management more efficient. You can also delete files with PowerShell.
- ✅System administration: PowerShell serves as a comprehensive tool for system administrators, offering advanced functionalities for managing users, services, and system components.
- 💻Configure settings: You can tweak system configurations, set policies, and manage various aspects of the operating system through PowerShell commands.
Now, let’s look at different ways to open PowerShell in Windows 11.
Let’s take a look at the various methods, starting from opening PowerShell with Windows 11 Search Box to running PowerShell from the Windows 11 Start Menu.
We will also provide a video to help:
- 00:28 Right-click on the “Windows” button.
- 00:33 Choose “Windows PowerShell (Admin.)”
- 00:42 Click “Yes” on the prompt that appears.
Method 1. Open PowerShell with Windows 11 Search Box
If you want to start by opening the Windows 11 Search Box, here’s what to do:
Step 1. Open “Windows Search” by pressing the “Win + S” shortcut. Or, just open the “Start” menu and initiate a search by typing directly.
Step 2. Type PowerShell and locate the app in the search results displayed by Windows.
Method 2. Open PowerShell with Quick Link Menu
Initiate Windows PowerShell in the Windows 11 quick link menu as a second method.
The Windows quick link menu concisely lists advanced system tools such as the event viewer, device manager, disk management, computer management, and Task Manager.
This menu facilitates swift access to these tools, allowing for efficient navigation and utilization.
To use the quick link menu:
Step 1. Right-click on the “Start” menu to activate the quick link menu.
Another option is accessing Windows Terminal through the context menu. To do this:
Step 1. Right-click on “Windows” (e.g., desktop)
Step 2. Opt for “Open in Windows Terminal”.
Method 3. Launch PowerShell with Run Program
If you’re used to the Run application in Windows, you can use it to open documents, files, folders, and programs.
Step 1. Quickly initiate the “Run” app by pressing “Windows + R” on your keyboard.
Step 2. Next, enter powershell in the provided text box and click “OK” to launch the PowerShell window.
This process should be able to open Powershell in Windows 11 without any hassle.
Method 4. Wake Up PowerShell in the Command Prompt
Another alternative approach for accessing PowerShell is by using the Command Prompt. This method provides you with a straightforward process to bring PowerShell up and running, adding versatility to the ways in which you can access and use this powerful tool on Windows 11.
Step 1. Begin by clicking the “Search” icon located on the Taskbar.
Step 3. Once the “Command Prompt” is open, enter powershell and press “Enter” to launch PowerShell seamlessly.
Method 5. Run PowerShell in File Explorer
Step 1. Open “Windows File Explorer” by pressing “Win + E” on your keyboard.
Step 3. Locate “PowerShell” next to the address bar.
Step 4. Right-click on the “PowerShell” file.
Step 5. Choose “Open” to open Windows PowerShell.
Windows File Explorer Not Responding? Here Are 8 Possible Methods
Method 6. Open PowerShell in the Control Panel
The Windows Control Panel serves as a software hub with various tools for configuring settings in the Windows operating system.
This powerful tool lets you initiate nearly any installed application on your computer.
Step 1. Type control panel within your Windows “Search” bar and click “Open” to launch “Control Panel”.
Step 2. Navigate to the “System and Security” section within the Control Panel.
Step 3. Scroll down and choose “Windows Tools”.
Method 7. Run PowerShell from the Windows 11 Start Menu
In contrast to Windows 10, where PowerShell has its dedicated folder among all applications, Windows 11 consolidates PowerShell with other system tools within a unified folder known as “Windows Tools”.
Step 1. Launch the “Start” menu and choose the “All Apps” button.
Step 2. Scroll down to locate and open the “Windows Tools” folder.
Step 3. Navigate through the list of utilities and launch either PowerShell, PowerShell ISE or their corresponding x86 versions.
Don’t forget to send this post to your friends and colleagues to help them learn how to open PowerShell in Windows 11.
Why use PowerShell scripts?
PowerShell scripts can also be used to ensure consistency in the environment. By using scripts, you can ensure that all machines are configured in the same way, which can minimize errors and reduce downtime.
Tips and best practices
Safely using an elevated PowerShell prompt
- Limit elevated sessions:
- Verify commands: Always double-check the commands you intend to execute in an elevated prompt to prevent unintended changes to system configurations or files.
- Use caution with third-party scripts: Exercise caution when running third-party scripts or commands in an elevated prompt. Only execute scripts from trusted sources to mitigate the risk of malicious activities and ensure the integrity of your system.
- Regularly review logs: Monitor system logs and event records regularly to detect any suspicious activities or unauthorized access attempts. Promptly investigate any anomalies to maintain system security and integrity.
User Account Control (UAC) and security considerations
- Understand UAC prompts:
- Enable UAC
- Adjust UAC settings cautiously: While it’s possible to adjust the UAC settings to suit your preferences, exercise caution when modifying these settings. Increasing the UAC level provides enhanced security but may lead to more frequent prompts, while lowering the UAC level may reduce security safeguards.
- Can you execute powershell script with elevated privileges with no UAC prompt? UAC can’t be easily ignored or bypassed — otherwise, it would provide no protection against malicious software. While UAC can be turned off or set to never notify, this would not be advisable, as doing so carries a great deal of security risk.
Avoiding unnecessary elevation and using standard prompts when appropriate
- Use standard prompts for routine tasks: For routine tasks that don’t necessitate elevated permissions, use a standard PowerShell prompt to minimize the risk of unintended system changes.
- Consider alternative approaches: Before elevating privileges, explore alternative approaches or command options that may achieve your objectives without requiring elevated permissions. Leveraging built-in PowerShell features and cmdlets can often accomplish tasks efficiently without the need for elevation.
- Practice principle of least privilege:
PowerShell modules for running scripts
PowerShell modules are collections of cmdlets, functions, and scripts that can be used to perform specific tasks. There are many PowerShell modules available for running scripts, including:
- Posh-SSH: A module for performing SSH and SFTP tasks
- ActiveDirectory: A module for managing Active Directory
- ExchangeOnlineManagement: A module for managing Exchange Online
- VMware.PowerCLI: A module for managing VMware environments
Install-Module -Name Microsoft.Online.SharePoint.PowerShell -Force -AllowClobber
There are several PowerShell script editor tools available that can help you write, test, and debug PowerShell scripts. Here are some popular PowerShell script editor tools:
- PowerShell ISE: An integrated scripting environment for PowerShell that comes pre-installed with Windows
- Visual Studio Code: A code editor with extensions for PowerShell scripting.
- 3rd party commercial PowerShell editors with advanced features: Sapien PowerShell Studio, PowerShell Plus, Notepad++, etc., to edit PowerShell scripts. You can also create a PowerShell script or open the PowerShell script in Notepad and make changes to it (Not just Notepad, but you can use any text editors to create a PowerShell script!).
PowerShell ISE to Create and Run PowerShell script Files on Windows 10 or 11
To run a script in PowerShell ISE, open the Windows PowerShell ISE and use the File menu to open your script file. Once your script is displayed in the ISE, simply press the green run button to run a PowerShell script using the PowerShell ISE.

To run selected portions of your script in PowerShell ISE, simply highlight the code you want to execute and press F8
or click the “Run Selection” button. PowerShell will run just the selected code, allowing you to test it in isolation.
The PowerShell ISE offers a convenient way to execute scripts while providing a more accessible environment for reviewing and editing your code, making it an excellent choice for those new to PowerShell or those who prefer a more graphical interface.
Execute a PowerShell Using Visual Studio Code
When combined with the PowerShell extension, Visual Studio Code (VSCode) provides an excellent environment for writing and running PowerShell scripts.
- Install Visual Studio Code and the PowerShell extension
- Open Visual Studio Code and open the script file you want to run.
- To run the entire script, press “F5” or select “Run” from the “Debug” menu
- To run a specific section of the script, highlight the code and press “F8” or select “Run Selection/Line in PowerShell” from the context menu.

With these steps, you can easily run PowerShell scripts and commands in VS Code. More info: How to Run PowerShell Scripts with Visual Studio Code?
How to Open PowerShell? [Top 5 Ways!]
Method 1. By using Start Menu Search
Step 1. All you need to do is hit the start or search icon and the “PowerShell” in the search box.
Method 2. By using scrolling all apps in Start Menu
Step 1. You need to hit the “Start” icon and then choose “All Apps” to broaden the list of apps installed on your Windows PC.
Step 2. After that, you need to scroll down, hit the “Windows PowerShell” folder, and choose this to open.
Method 3. By using the Power Users Menu
Method 4. By using Run Box
Hit the Windows + R to open the Run dialog box and type PowerShell in the text box. You may either hit “OK” or “Enter” to launch a regular PowerShell window. Otherwise, you may press the Ctrl+Shift+Enter key altogether to open an elevated PowerShell window.
Method 5. By using File Explorer
Do you need to open a PowerShell instance from a particular folder on your PC? If so, you may use File Explorer to kick-start the process within the chosen directory. Open File Explorer and head over to the folder to open a PowerShell Window. Now, select “File,” then, while holding down the “Open Windows PowerShell” option, choose one of the alternatives listed below:
- Open Windows PowerShell as Administrator.
- Open Windows PowerShell.
Running PowerShell Scripts with Arguments
Arguments are the secret sauce that makes your PowerShell scripts dynamic and reusable. By passing different values into your script, you can adapt its behavior to suit a wide range of scenarios.
Imagine you have a script that generates a random number between 1 and 10. With arguments, you can easily modify the script to generate numbers in a different range, like this:
.\GetRandomNumber.ps1 -Min 1 -Max 100
In this example, -Min
and -Max
are parameters that accept the lower and upper bounds for the random number generator. The script can then use these values to create a number within the specified range.
Here’s a simplified version of what the “GetRandomNumber.ps1” script might look like:
param( [int]$Min = 1, [int]$Max = 10 ) Get-Random -Minimum $Min -Maximum $Max
Conclusion
Plus, if you’re seeking a reliable solution in cases of data loss or system instability, we strongly recommend downloading the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.
This tool will safeguard your data and ensure the optimal performance of your Windows 11 system.
If you have more questions on how to open PowerShell Windows 11, here are more questions and answers for you. You can check them out for further insights.
1. Why is PowerShell not opening in Windows 11?
There could be several reasons why PowerShell is not opening in Windows 11. Here are some common issues and their potential solutions:
- Corrupted installation: If the PowerShell installation is corrupted, it may fail to open. Try reinstalling PowerShell to resolve the issue.
- System file corruption: System file corruption can impact PowerShell’s functionality. Use the System File Checker (SFC) function to scan and repair corrupted system files.
- Windows update: Ensure that your Windows 11 operating system is up to date.
- Malware or antivirus interference: Malware or overzealous antivirus software may block PowerShell. Perform a thorough malware scan and check your antivirus settings to ensure PowerShell is not being blocked.
Step 1. Activate Windows Search by pressing the “Win + S” keyboard shortcut.
Step 2. Input “PowerShell” into the search bar.
3. How do I access PowerShell in Windows 11 quickly?
To swiftly access PowerShell in Windows 11, simply:
Step 1. Enter powershell into the address bar of Windows Explorer and hit “Enter.”
Alternatively, you can:
Step 1. Navigate directly by right-clicking on the Windows “Start” icon.
4. How can I download PowerShell in Windows 11?
You can always download PowerShell via the Microsoft Store. Remember, the PowerShell release is available on the Microsoft Store website or within the Store application on any of your Windows devices.
Conclusion
PowerShell on Windows 10 can be quickly opened by right-clicking on the start button of Windows. But you must know other methods about how to open PowerShell so that you will never run out of options. Top 5 ways mentioned above to open PowerShell in Windows 10; hope it helps!