PowerShell
PowerShell is a cross-platform task automation and configuration management framework, consisting of a command-line shell and scripting language. It allows administrators to control and automate administration tasks on Windows and other operating systems.
automation
scripting
shell
commandline
crossplatform
windows
configuration-management
PowerShell: Cross-Platform Task Automation & Configuration Management
A powerful command-line shell and scripting language for automating administration tasks on Windows and other operating systems.
What is PowerShell?
PowerShell is a cross-platform task automation and configuration management framework from Microsoft, consisting of a command-line shell and an associated scripting language. It provides comprehensive control and automation capabilities for Windows administrators and power users.
Key features and capabilities of PowerShell include:
- Powerful scripting language integrated with the .NET Framework.
- Ability to access and manipulate components of the Windows operating system and other Microsoft software.
- Extensive set of built-in commands (cmdlets) for tasks like managing processes, services, event logs, networks, and more.
- Support for pipelines, allowing commands to be chained together.
- Powerful job scheduling and automation capabilities.
- Remoting for executing commands and scripts on remote systems.
- Consistent design across Windows, Linux, and macOS systems that use .NET Core.
PowerShell aims to provide Windows administrators and power users, across on-premises and cloud environments, with a single flexible automation platform and environment for managing Windows and other systems. It includes both interactive and scripting tools for IT professionals and developers, with the goal of consolidating and automating administrative tasks.
PowerShell Features
Features
- PowerShell scripting language
- Command line shell and scripting environment
- Remoting for executing commands on remote systems
- Desired State Configuration for configuring systems
- Providers for accessing data stores like registry and file system
- Cmdlets for performing administrative tasks
Pricing
- Free
- Open Source
Pros
Built-in to Windows so no installation required
Very powerful for automating administrative tasks
Large set of cmdlets available for functionality
Cross-platform support including Linux and macOS
Desired State Configuration provides easy system configuration
Can be used for DevOps and infrastructure automation
Cons
Steep learning curve for scripting language
Complex object pipeline can be hard to understand
Commands use verbose naming conventions
Limited usage outside of Windows environments
Not as many resources for learning as other scripting languages
Official Links
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