Step-by-Step Method to Verify Your PowerShell Version on Windows 11

How to Check Your PowerShell Version on Windows 11

Figuring out which version of PowerShell you’re running on Windows 11 is simpler than you might think—and it can save you a lot of headaches when dealing with compatibility issues, especially with scripts or modules. All you need to do is open PowerShell and run a quick command to see the version details. It’s a tiny step, but it ensures you’re on the right track with what you’re trying to do.

Getting to PowerShell

Start by opening the Start Menu. Click the Windows icon in the corner or press the Win key. This is basically your gateway to everything installed on your PC. If you’re in a hurry, press Win + S to jump straight to the search bar.

Finding PowerShell

Type “PowerShell” into the search box. Windows will predict likely matches, which is handy. You’ll typically see options for “Windows PowerShell” and “Windows PowerShell (Admin)”. If you need to run commands with elevated permissions, choose the Admin version — like getting the VIP pass to the system.

Launching PowerShell

Click on the PowerShell app from the search results to open it. If you plan to do some serious admin work, right-click and select Run as administrator. This opens a console where you can ask your system questions and get the answers you need.

Checking the PowerShell Version

Once PowerShell is open, type this:

$PSVersionTable.PSVersion

Then press Enter. Alternatively, you can use this command:

powershell -Command "$PSVersionTable.PSVersion"

This will display the version information you’re after — no fuss, just the facts.

Understanding the Output

After running the command, your screen will show some numbers indicating your PowerShell version. It typically includes major, minor, build, and revision numbers. The major and minor versions are the most important—they tell you how old your PowerShell is and what features it includes. Knowing this can save a lot of trouble later, especially if your scripts throw errors because they’re incompatible with an older version. It’s a bit frustrating, but knowing your version can make troubleshooting much easier.

Tips for Using PowerShell on Windows 11

Pro tip: Always run PowerShell with administrator privileges when making system changes. It’s a good habit to avoid permission issues. Also, keep your PowerShell up to date — download the latest from the PowerShell GitHub releases page. Outdated scripts and modules are a headache nobody wants.

If the command `$PSVersionTable` is your go-to for checking the version, it’s also a treasure trove of additional info about your environment. To see everything in detail, run:

$PSVersionTable | Format-List

This provides a complete snapshot of your PowerShell setup—very handy for more advanced tasks.

Common Questions

Can I check the PowerShell version from Command Prompt?

Absolutely. Open Command Prompt and type: powershell -Command "$PSVersionTable.PSVersion". It runs PowerShell commands directly from the command line—quick and straightforward.

Do I need special permissions to check my PowerShell version?

Not at all! You don’t need admin rights for this. But if you plan on modifying settings or running scripts requiring elevated access, then it’s best to choose Run as administrator.

What’s the difference between PowerShell and PowerShell Core?

PowerShell Core is the newer, cross-platform sibling that works on Windows, Linux, and macOS. It’s open-source and has different version numbers—usually 6 and above. To confirm you’re on PowerShell Core, check with $PSVersionTable.PSVersion. Recent versions are 6+; if you want the latest, grab it from the Microsoft download page.

How to upgrade to the latest PowerShell version?

Visit the GitHub releases page to download the latest installer. Just run it once it’s downloaded and follow the setup prompts. If you’re still on Windows PowerShell 5.1, you might see updates via Windows Update—though, honestly, switching to PowerShell Core provides more features and cross-platform support.

Why is PowerShell version info important?

Some scripts or tools depend on specific features only available in certain PowerShell versions. Knowing your version helps you avoid errors and ensures everything works smoothly.

Quick Recap of Steps

• Open the Start Menu (Start > Settings or press Win + S).
• Type “PowerShell” in the search bar.
• Click to open PowerShell or right-click and choose Run as administrator.
• Type $PSVersionTable.PSVersion or powershell -Command "$PSVersionTable.PSVersion" and press Enter.
• Review the version details, especially the Major and Minor numbers.

Checking your PowerShell version on Windows 11 isn’t just a routine step—it can prevent future frustrations by making sure your scripts and tools are compatible with your setup. Takes just a minute, and it can save hours of headaches later. A simple check that’s worth doing on all your machines—better safe than sorry.