ByPowerShell is an extremely powerful tool in the Windows operating system, used for system administration, automation, scripting, and advanced task management. Updating PowerShell regularly not only provides access to new features but also improves security, performance, and stability. In this detailed article, we present all the effective and official methods for updating PowerShell on Windows.
Why Updating PowerShell is Important
The latest version of PowerShell is not limited to just new features; it includes several important improvements:
Improved security patches
New Cmdlets and Modules
Enhanced scripting support
Bug fixes and performance optimizations
Cross-platform support (PowerShell 7+)
If your system is running an older version of PowerShell, many modern scripts may not work correctly.
How to Check the Current PowerShell Version in Windows
Before updating, we should check the existing version:
1. Open PowerShell
2. Run the following command:
“`powershell
$PSVersionTable
“`
This command will show the Version, Edition, and build details of the PowerShell installed on your system.
Difference Between Windows PowerShell and PowerShell 7
Before understanding the update process, it’s important to know that:
Windows PowerShell 5.1: Comes pre-installed with Windows
PowerShell 7 (Core): Microsoft’s latest and modern version
> Note: PowerShell 7 does not replace Windows PowerShell; it installs alongside it.
Method 1: Updating PowerShell from the Microsoft Store (Easiest)
Updating PowerShell through the Microsoft Store is the simplest and safest method.
Steps:
1. Open the Microsoft Store
2. Type PowerShell in the search bar
3. Click on PowerShell (Microsoft Corporation)
4. If an update is available, click the Update button
Advantages:
Automatic updates
Official and secure
No technical knowledge required
Also read: How to Check Your Phone’s Charging Speed: Complete and Detailed Information
Method 2: Updating PowerShell using the MSI Installer
This method is suitable for users who want manual control. Steps:
1. Download the official Microsoft PowerShell release file.
2. Select the MSI file according to your system:
x64 (64-bit)
x86 (32-bit)
ARM64
3. Double-click the MSI file.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
5. Restart your system after the installation is complete.
Method 3: Updating PowerShell via Winget (Advanced Users)
Winget is Windows’ built-in package manager.
Command:
“`powershell
winget upgrade Microsoft.PowerShell
“`
Features:
Fast and automated
Ideal for administrators and developers
Useful in scripting
Method 4: Updating PowerShell with Chocolatey
If you have Chocolatey installed on your system, this method is quite effective.
Command:
“`powershell
choco upgrade powershell-core
“`
Advantages:
Easy package management
Useful for multi-system environments
How to make PowerShell 7 the default terminal
After the update, you can make PowerShell 7 the default shell:
1. Open Windows Terminal
2. Go to Settings → Startup
3. Select PowerShell in the Default Profile
4. Save and restart the Terminal
How to confirm the PowerShell version after the update
After the installation is complete, open the new PowerShell and run this command again:
“`powershell
$PSVersionTable.PSVersion
“`
If the version shows 7.x.x, the update was successful. Common PowerShell Update Issues and Solutions
PowerShell is not launching
Try opening it from Windows Terminal
Repair the MSI installation
Commands are not working
Check the Execution Policy:
“`powershell
Get-ExecutionPolicy
“`
The old version is still opening
Use the correct PowerShell shortcut
Check the Path Environment Variable
Key Benefits of Updating PowerShell
Improved JSON and REST API support
Consistent command experience across Linux and macOS
Better integration with Azure and DevOps tools
Faster script execution
Conclusion
Regularly updating PowerShell in Windows is essential for every user, administrator, and developer. Whether you use the Microsoft Store, Winget, MSI Installer, or Chocolatey, a properly updated PowerShell makes your system more secure, faster, and more powerful. Adopting PowerShell 7 is a smart decision for a modern Windows experience.
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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about PowerShell Updates in Windows
1. What is PowerShell, and what is it used for?
PowerShell is an advanced command-line and automation tool for Windows, used for system management, scripting, task automation, and administration. It is extremely useful for IT professionals and power users.
2. What is the difference between Windows PowerShell and PowerShell 7?
Windows PowerShell 5.1 comes pre-installed with Windows, while PowerShell 7 is a newer, faster, and cross-platform version. PowerShell 7 offers improved performance, new cmdlets, and modern features.
3. Is it safe to update PowerShell?
Yes, updating PowerShell is completely safe, especially when you do it through the Microsoft Store, Winget, or the official installer. Updates improve security and stability.
4. Does updating PowerShell remove the old PowerShell?
No, updating to PowerShell 7 does not remove Windows PowerShell 5.1. Both are separate versions and can coexist.
5. How do I check the latest version of PowerShell?
Open PowerShell and run this command:
“`powershell
$PSVersionTable
“`
This will show you the complete version details of your installed PowerShell.
6. What is the easiest way to update PowerShell?
Updating PowerShell through the Microsoft Store is the easiest way, as it offers automatic update support and requires no technical setup.
7. Are administrator permissions required to update PowerShell?
Yes, in most cases, administrator privileges are required, especially when updating via the MSI installer, Winget, or Chocolatey.
8. What should I do if commands don’t work after a PowerShell update?
In this situation, you should:
Check your Execution Policy
Open PowerShell as Administrator
Launch PowerShell 7 from Windows Terminal
9. Does Windows Update update PowerShell?
Windows PowerShell 5.1 may sometimes be updated through Windows Update, but PowerShell 7 is not updated via Windows Update. This requires using the Microsoft Store or a manual method.
10. Can PowerShell 7 be made the default shell?
Yes, you can set PowerShell 7 as the Default Profile in Windows Terminal Settings, so it opens every time.
11. Will updating PowerShell slow down the system?
No, in fact, after updating to PowerShell 7, the system and scripts run faster than before. It is more optimized than the older versions.
12. Is it necessary to update PowerShell?
Yes, if you want new features, improved security, and modern script support, keeping PowerShell updated is essential.
