What Is PowerShell?

PowerShell is a Microsoft tool that provides programming features for automation, configuration management, and scripting. PowerShell is also an open-source command-line interface compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. As a programmer, you can use PowerShell in many ways to help save time on repetitive or time-consuming tasks. 

Take a closer look at PowerShell's four main functional areas: open-source command-line interface, scripting, task automation, and configuration management. 

Command-line interface

A command-line interface allows computer users to interact with the computer directly through text, unlike the graphical user interface (GUI) most people use to navigate their computer programs. PowerShell offers a command-line interface that you can use on macOS, Windows, or Linux, increasing compatibility. One advantage of using PowerShell for a command-line interface is that PowerShell can return .NET objects instead of only text, which is what most command-line interfaces are capable of. 

Scripting and automating tasks

In addition to functioning as a scripting engine, PowerShell is a fully functional scripting language used to automate tasks for DevOps, user management, continuous integration/continuous development, and many other system administrator tasks. The substantial library of tools available in PowerShell makes it easier to start with existing scripts. However, because it’s also a scripting language, you can also use it to write your own functions. 

Configuration management

PowerShell offers a management framework called desired state configuration (DSC), which makes it easier for system administrators and other IT professionals to keep servers working properly. DSC lets users define how a workstation should operate and allows the framework to make it happen without specifying every detail. 

Related terms

• Command-line interface 

• GUI

• Configuration management

Learn more about PowerShell.

PowerShell is a versatile tool for IT professionals. It offers a command-line interface, scripting language for automating tasks, and configuration management features to streamline system administration. It's also open-source and compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Take the next step and learn more about PowerShell, the command-line interface, and other topics you need to know about to start a career as an IT specialist. You can earn your Google IT Support Professional Certificate in at least six months on Coursera. This beginner-friendly series of five courses can help you prepare for a career with skills in debugging, customer service, network protocols, cloud computing, and more.