Author : HASSAN MD TAREQ | Updated : 2021/09/09
What is PowerShell?
- A task automation and configuration management framework from Microsoft
- Open source shell and scripting language built on top of Microsoft .NET technology
- Consisting of a command-line shell and the associated scripting language
- PowerShell is built on the .NET Common Language Runtime (CLR). All inputs and outputs are .NET objects
Usage
- As a scripting language, PowerShell is commonly used for automating the management of systems
- Used to build, test, and deploy solutions (i.e. CI/CD environments)
- Can be used as Configuration Management Framework: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/powershell/scripting/overview?view=powershell-7.1#configuration-management
PowerShell vs Windows PowerShell
| PowerShell | Windows PowerShell |
|---|---|
| It’s Open Source “PowerShell Core” | Windows PowerShell (1.0 - 5.1) is a component of the Windows OS |
| Cross-platform | Windows only |
| PowerShell Core is released under the MIT license | Windows licensing |
| PowerShell is a distinct set of tools and components that is shipped, installed, and configured separately | Included in Windows |
| Built on top of .Net Core | Windows PowerShell 5.1 is built on top of the .NET Framework v4.5 |
More: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/powershell/scripting/whats-new/differences-from-windows-powershell