There are several ways to open PowerShell in Windows 11. This article lists them all. PowerShell is a powerful scripting console app in Windows 11 Microsoft introduced back in 2008. Although Microsoft wants you to use Windows Terminal as your primary console app, PowerShell is still available, just like Command Prompt.
PowerShell is an advanced scripting language and engine that comes with a huge set of built-in commands called «cmdlets». Cmdlets allow performing a wide range of tasks, from simple file operation and text processing to programming and system administrative tasks. More than that, the user can create custom modules and utilize .NET functions and assemblies for creating powerful utils and services using just PowerShell.
There are plenty of methods to open PowerShell on Windows 11. Besides the shortcut in the Start menu, you can directly start it from the Run dialog, from Task Manager, File Explorer, and with a number of other methods. Let’s review these methods.
Unlike Windows 10, where PowerShell has a dedicated folder in the list of all apps, Windows 11 «stores» PowerShell alongside all system tools in a single folder called «Windows Tools.» You can launch PowerShell from that folder.
To open PowerShell in Windows 11, do the following.
- Open the Start menu and click the «All Apps» button.
- Scroll down and find the «Windows Tools» folder. Open it.
- Go down the list of utilities and open PowerShell, PowerShell ISE, or their respective x86 versions.
You can also open PowerShell in Windows 11 using the Run dialog box, Task Manager or in any folder in File Explorer with the powershell.exe command.
Using the Powershell.exe command
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box, then enter
PowerShell. Press Ok to execute the command.
- Similarly to Run, you can open PowerShell in Windows 11 from the Task Manager. Open Task Manager and click File > Run new task.
- Enter
powershellin the Run text box. - Click OK to open the classic PowerShell console.
- Finally, you can open File Explorer and click the address bar, then enter
powershell. Press Enter.
That is how to access Windows 11 PowerShell with the command of the same name.
Using Windows Terminal
By default, Windows 11 uses a new console app called Windows Terminal. It has several built-in profiles, such as Command Prompt and PowerShell. PowerShell is the default, which means you can simply open Windows Terminal to use it as PowerShell.
We have a dedicated article about how to open Windows Terminal in Windows 11. The simplest way is to right-click the Start menu button and select Windows Terminal or Windows Terminal (Admin) if you need to open PowerShell as Administrator in Windows 11.
If you changed the default profile in Windows Terminal, then you need to select PowerShell from the ‘profiles’ down arrow button.
Finally, you can added Windows Terminal profiles to the context menu of File Explorer, and launch and desired profile directly to the current folder, including the classic PowerShell and the newest PowerShell 7.x.
How to open PowerShell in Windows 11 using Search
- Press Win + S to open Windows Search. Alternatively, open the Start menu and click the search button. You can also simply open the Start menu and start typing.
- Enter PowerShell. Windows will show the app in the search results.
- Press Enter to open PowerShell in Windows 11. Alternatively, click Run as Administrator if needed.
Pin PowerShell to the Windows 11 taskbar
If you frequently use PowerShell in Windows 11, you can pin PowerShell to the taskbar to keep it around all the time. All you need is to open PowerShell in Windows 11 using any method in this article, right-click the icon on the taskbar and click «Pin to taskbar.»
Note: For some reason, Microsoft does not allow pinning apps to the taskbar using drag-and-drop, at least as of this writing. So do not even try to pin PowerShell to the taskbar using that method.
How to create a shortcut to PowerShell on the Desktop
Another way to open PowerShell in Windows 11 is to create a shortcut on the Desktop.
- Open the Start menu and click «All Apps.»
- Find the Windows Tools folder and open it.
- Locate PowerShell, PowerShell ISE, or their x86 versions.
- Drag PowerShell to the Desktop to create a shortcut.
There is another way to create a shortcut to PowerShell in Windows 11. You can do it manually as follows.
Create a PowerShell shortcut manually
- On the Desktop or any other folder, right-click and select New > Shortcut.
- In a new window, enter PowerShell.exe in the «Type the location…» field.
- Click Next and give your shortcut some meaningful name.
- Click Finish to complete the process.
Finally, you can launch PowerShell from the context menu in Windows 11 at any folder. File Explorer includes a built-in command for that, it is just hidden by default.
To open PowerShell in Windows 11 from the context menu, do the following.
- Open File Explorer, press Win + E for that.
- Right-click the folder you want to open the PowerShell console to.
- Press and hold the Shift key on the keyboard, then click the Show more options item.
- Select Open PowerShell here.
That is how you access PowerShell on Windows 11. Any of those methods work equally, so you can use whichever you prefer.
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Во многих руководствах на нашем сайте, вы часто видите инструкции, в которых необходимо открыть PowerShell от имени администратора. В Windows 11 вам иногда придется его использовать, поэтому я хотел бы поделиться с вами несколькими способами открытия PowerShell от имени Администратора.
Как открыть PowerShell из меню «Win + X»
- Этот способ очень удобен в Windows 11. Чтобы получить доступ к этому меню Win X в Windows 11, нажмите на клавиатуре сочетание клавиш Win X или кликните правой кнопкой мыши на меню «Пуск».
- В открывшимся меню выберите пункт Терминал Windows (Admin).
Это откроет окно терминала с запущенным PowerShell от имени администратора.
Открыть PowerShell с помощью поиска
В Windows 11 вы можете использовать значок поиска на панели задач. Кликните мышкой на нем и введите «PowerShell», в разделе «лучшее соответствие» кликните на результат правой кнопкой мыши и выберите «Запуск от имени администратора» или в результатах поискам справа нажмите «Запуск от имени администратора».
Это также работает в меню «Пуск», просто начните печатать PowerShell, затем кликните правой кнопкой мыши на появившемся представлении Windows PowerShell и выберите «Запуск от имени Администратора».
Как запустить PowerShell из Проводника Windows 11
Вы можете запустить PowerShell из Проводника. Вы можете подумать, зачем? Вот примерный сценарий.
Всякий раз, кликаете правой кнопкой мыши по любой папке в проводнике, вы получите пункт в контекстном меню «Открыть в терминале Windows». Это очень удобно, вы просто открыли окно PowerShell по желаемому пути.
Как Всегда открывать PowerShell от имени администратора
Примечание: Параметр автоматического повышения уровня доступен в Windows Terminal версии 1.13 и выше. Чтобы проверить версию терминала, используйте команду «wt -v». Если вам нужно обновить приложение, используйте команду: winget upgrade —id Microsoft.WindowsTerminal.Preview. Если у вас нет приложения, используйте команду для его установки: winget install —id Microsoft.WindowsTerminal.Preview
Чтобы всегда запускать PowerShell от имени администратора в Windows 11 или Windows 10, выполните следующие действия:
-
Откройте Терминал Windows.
-
Нажмите кнопку меню рядом с параметром новой вкладки и выберите «Параметры».
-
В разделе «Профили» нажмите PowerShell.
-
Включите переключатель в положение «Вкл.» для «Запускать этот профиль от имени администратора», чтобы автоматически запускать PowerShell с правами администратора.
-
Нажмите кнопку «Сохранить».
После выполнения этих шагов закройте терминал, и когда вы снова откроете PowerShell, консоль откроется от имени администратора. Однако вам все равно нужно будет подтвердить повышение, как и в любом другом приложении.
Все!
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- [10 Ways] How to Open Windows 11 PowerShell Quickly/Easily?
By Helen | Follow |
Last Updated
This article commented by MiniTool official website mainly teaches you ten solutions to launch Windows 11 PowerShell, including but not limited to through Start menu, Search, Run, CMD, Command Prompt…
#1 Open Windows 11 PowerShell Through Search
Firstly, you can rely on the Windows Search function to launch PowerShell in Windows 11. Just click on the magnifier icon in the taskbar, input “powershell” in the blank, and choose a proper PowerShell program to open, Windows PowerShell, Windows PowerShell (x86) (32-bit version of PowerShell), Windows PowerShell ISE, or Windows PowerShell ISE (x86).
You can directly double-click to open your target PowerShell utility or right-click on it and choose Run as administrator.
Secondly, you can start Windows PowerShell within Windows 11 quick link menu. Right-click on your Start menu to trigger the quick link menu and select Windows Terminal or Windows Terminal (Admin) in the menu list.
By default, the command platform in Windows Terminal is PowerShell. If yours isn’t, you can select Windows PowerShell in the drop-down list after clicking on the down-arrow.
You can also access Windows Terminal through the context menu. Just right-click on Windows (e.g. desktop) and select Open in Windows Terminal.
#3 Start Windows 11 PowerShell with Run Box
Thirdly, you are able to trigger PowerShell under the help of the Windows 11 Run dialog. Open Windows 11 Run box, type “powershell”, and click OK to finish.
#4 Run PowerShell by Switching from CMD
If you know how to open the command prompt (CMD) in Windows 11, you can enter PowerShell right there. Launch Windows 11 CMD, key in “powershell”, and press Enter key to complete.
#5 windows 11 Open PowerShell in a Folder
Also, you can trigger PowerShell directly in Windows 11 Explorer. Just input “powershell” in the address bar of Windows Explorer and press Enter.
Or, you can directly go to C:\Windows\System32\WindowsPowerShell\v1.0, find the PowerShell or PowerShell ISE executable file, and double-click on it to run the PowerShell.
Besides, you can launch PowerShell from Windows 11 Start.
1. Click on the Start icon and select All Apps in the popup.
2. On the next screen, scroll down to find and open Windows Tools.
3. In the Windows Tools window, select a proper PowerShell tool to launch.
#7 Open Windows 11 PowerShell Under Control Panel
Similarly, you can directly access Windows Tools from Control Panel for launching PowerShell. Just open Windows 11 Control Panel, view its items by icons from the top right, and click Windows Tools. Then, just follow the above guide to start PowerShell.
#8 Open Windows 11 PowerShell Commands Within Task Manager
Next, you can start the PowerShell command prompt from Windows 11 Task Manager.
- Open Windows 11 Task Manager.
- In the Task Manager window, select File > Run new task.
- In the new popup, type “powershell”.
- Click OK.
#9 Launch Win 11 PowerShell by Creating a Desktop Shortcut
Then, you can get access to the PowerShell app in Win11 by creating a shortcut for it on your desktop.
- right-click on your desktop and choose New > Shortcut.
- In the pop-up window, input “powershell”.
- Next, assign a name to the new shortcut.
- Finally, click Finish to complete the task.
#10 Start PowerShell of Windows 11 via a Batch File
Finally, you can trigger Win 11 PowerShell application using a specific batch file.
- Create a new text document anywhere on your computer.
- Input exe -Command “& {Start-Process Powershell.exe -Verb RunAs}” into the file.
- Save the file as LaunchPowerShell(Admin).bat.
- Finally, double-click the batch file to open Windows 11 PowerShell.
Note: Please do with the exact order of the above instruction. Otherwise, you won’t succeed.
Windows 11 Assistant Software Recommended
The new and powerful Windows 11 will bring you many benefits. At the same time, it will also bring you some unexpected damages such as data loss. Thus, it is strongly recommended that you back up your crucial files before or after upgrading to Win11 with a robust and reliable program like MiniTool ShadowMaker, which will assist you to protect your increasing data automatically on schedules!
MiniTool ShadowMaker TrialClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
About The Author
Position: Columnist
Helen Graduated from university in 2014 and started working as a tech editor in the same year. Her articles focus on data backup & recovery and disk management. Through an in-depth exploration of computer technology, Helen has successfully helped thousands of users solve their annoying problems.
Opening PowerShell on Windows 11 can be a breeze once you know where to look. Whether you need it for scripting, task automation, or just some good old command line fun, accessing PowerShell is as easy as pie. We’ll cover a few simple ways to launch it, whether you prefer using the Start Menu, a keyboard shortcut, or even the Task Manager. Dive in, and you’ll be navigating Windows 11 like a pro in no time!
Accessing PowerShell on Windows 11 involves a few straightforward steps to get you up and running. Let’s delve into how you can get PowerShell open and ready to use.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click on the Start Menu icon in the lower-left corner of your screen.
The Start Menu is your gateway to everything on your computer. Once it’s open, you can find PowerShell by typing its name or scrolling through the list of apps. It’s like flipping through a digital Rolodex of all your software!
Step 2: Search for PowerShell
Type “PowerShell” into the search bar at the top of the Start Menu.
As you type, Windows 11 will start showing results. You’ll notice that PowerShell is usually one of the top options. It’s like your computer is reading your mind, anticipating what you need.
Step 3: Select PowerShell from the Search Results
Click on “Windows PowerShell” from the list of search results.
Selecting it will immediately launch the PowerShell window. If you need administrative rights, you can right-click and choose “Run as administrator.” Consider it like choosing the VIP option for full access.
Step 4: Use the Keyboard Shortcut
Press Windows + X on your keyboard, then select “Windows Terminal.”
This shortcut gives you quick access to Windows Terminal, which includes PowerShell. It’s a handy tool for those who love using key combos to speed up their workflow.
Step 5: Open PowerShell via Task Manager
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, then click “File” > “Run new task.”
In the dialog box, type “powershell” and hit Enter. This method is your go-to when other options aren’t working or if you enjoy taking the scenic route via Task Manager.
After you complete these steps, PowerShell will open, ready to take your commands or run scripts. You’ll have a blue window with a prompt where you can start typing commands to manage your system, run scripts, or even automate tasks. PowerShell is like the Swiss Army knife for your computer—powerful and multifaceted.
Tips for Opening PowerShell on Windows 11
- Try pinning PowerShell to the taskbar for quicker access.
- Customize Windows Terminal settings to make PowerShell your default profile.
- Familiarize yourself with PowerShell’s command syntax for efficient scripting.
- Use PowerShell’s help system by typing
Get-Helpfollowed by a command. - Explore online resources and communities for PowerShell scripting tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PowerShell used for?
PowerShell is a task automation and configuration management framework from Microsoft. It helps users automate tasks and manage systems more efficiently.
Can I run PowerShell as an administrator?
Yes, right-click the PowerShell icon and select “Run as administrator” for elevated privileges.
What’s the difference between PowerShell and Command Prompt?
PowerShell is more advanced, offering scripting capabilities and access to more features compared to the Command Prompt, which is more limited.
How do I change the default profile in Windows Terminal to PowerShell?
Open Windows Terminal, go to settings, and set PowerShell as the default in the “Startup” section.
Is PowerShell only available on Windows?
No, PowerShell Core is cross-platform and can run on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Summary
- Open the Start Menu.
- Search for PowerShell.
- Select PowerShell from the search results.
- Use the Windows + X shortcut.
- Open via Task Manager.
Conclusion
Opening PowerShell on Windows 11 is not just a chore—it’s a journey into the heart of your operating system. As we’ve explored, there are multiple ways to get there, whether you’re all about speed or prefer to take the scenic route. PowerShell isn’t just a command line interface; it’s a powerful tool that can make your computing life simpler and more efficient.
By mastering its use, you’re not just opening an application; you’re unlocking a world of possibilities. From scripting to system management, PowerShell can transform the way you interact with Windows 11.
Why not dive deeper and explore more advanced features? There are countless resources and communities dedicated to PowerShell. You could even start automating daily tasks or simplifying complex system operations.
So go ahead, open PowerShell, and start exploring what it can do for you. It’s like having a superpower at your fingertips, one command at a time.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.
Read his full bio here.
Opening PowerShell in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that involves a few simple steps. First, press the Windows key and type «PowerShell» into the search bar. Then, select Windows PowerShell from the search results. Alternatively, right-click the Start button and choose Windows Terminal to open PowerShell if you prefer using the terminal interface.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Open PowerShell in Windows 11
In this tutorial, we will guide you through the steps to open PowerShell in Windows 11, ensuring you can easily access this powerful command-line tool.
Step 1: Press the Windows Key
Press the Windows key on your keyboard to open the Start Menu.
Doing this brings up the search bar where you can type in commands or program names to find and open them.
Step 2: Type «PowerShell»
Start typing «PowerShell» in the search bar that appears.
As you type, you will see search results populate with programs related to your query, making it easy to find what you’re looking for.
Step 3: Select Windows PowerShell
Click on Windows PowerShell from the search results.
Selecting this option will open the standard PowerShell window, where you can enter commands and run scripts.
Step 4: Right-Click the Start Button (Alternative Method)
Right-click the Start button on your taskbar and choose Windows Terminal from the menu.
Using the Windows Terminal option opens an interface that allows you to switch between PowerShell and Command Prompt tabs easily.
Step 5: Confirm Administrative Privileges (If Needed)
If prompted, click «Yes» to allow the app to make changes to your device.
Sometimes, PowerShell may require administrative privileges to run certain commands, so you might see a User Account Control (UAC) prompt.
After completing these steps, you will see the PowerShell window where you can start typing and executing your commands. Whether you used the search bar or the terminal method, you should now have access to the PowerShell interface.
Tips for Opening PowerShell in Windows 11
- Use the Search Bar: The quickest way to open PowerShell is by using the search bar in the Start Menu.
- Shortcut Key: Pressing
Windows + Xbrings up a menu with quick access to PowerShell. - Run as Administrator: Right-click and select «Run as administrator» for elevated access.
- Customize Terminal: In Windows Terminal, you can customize the appearance and settings for a better user experience.
- Pin to Taskbar: Pin PowerShell to your taskbar for even faster access in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PowerShell?
PowerShell is a task automation framework consisting of a command-line shell and scripting language.
Do I need administrative privileges to run PowerShell?
Not always, but certain commands and scripts require administrative access.
Can I run PowerShell scripts in Windows 11?
Yes, you can run scripts by typing the path to the script file in the PowerShell window.
How do I switch between PowerShell and Command Prompt in Windows Terminal?
Click the dropdown arrow in the Windows Terminal and select either PowerShell or Command Prompt.
Is PowerShell available in all editions of Windows 11?
Yes, PowerShell is included in all editions of Windows 11.
Summary
- Press the Windows Key.
- Type «PowerShell.»
- Select Windows PowerShell.
- Right-Click the Start Button (Alternative Method).
- Confirm Administrative Privileges (If Needed).
Conclusion
Opening PowerShell in Windows 11 is a quick and straightforward task, whether you’re using the search bar or the Windows Terminal. PowerShell is an essential tool for managing and automating tasks on your Windows system, providing a powerful command-line interface. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily access PowerShell and start leveraging its capabilities.
Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you use PowerShell, the more comfortable you’ll become with its commands and features. If you’re new to PowerShell, consider exploring tutorials and guides to get the most out of this versatile tool. And don’t forget to customize your Windows Terminal for a more personalized experience.