Updating PowerShell on Windows 11 isn’t exactly a walk in the park, but it’s definitely worth the small effort for the security patches and new features. First thing, you’ll want to pop open Windows Terminal—which, if you’re like most, you might have to hunt down in the Start menu. Just type “Windows Terminal,” right-click and run as administrator if you want to avoid permission issues. Sometimes, on certain setups, running as admin is the difference between a smooth update and frustrating errors.
Step 1: Open Windows Terminal
Click on the Start menu, in the search box type Windows Terminal, then hit Enter. If it doesn’t open right away, try right-clicking the icon and selecting Run as administrator. Windows Terminal combines PowerShell and Command Prompt, so it’s a nice one-stop-shop for command-line stuff. It also helps avoid some permission hell if you run it elevated.
Step 2: Check what PowerShell version you’re running
Type pwsh -v and hit Enter. This gives you the current version. If it shows something like 7.2 or 7.3, chances are you’re sorta up-to-date, but if it’s older or you’re just curious, moving forward makes sense. Keep in mind, on some setups, this might not show the version number clearly, and you might have to run $PSVersionTable.PSVersion instead for details.
Step 3: Install the latest PowerShell (sometimes, the preview is the best deal)
Most folks want the latest stable release, but it’s not a bad idea to try the preview—sometimes, new features show up there first. Run this command to install the preview version:
winget install --id Microsoft.PowerShell.Preview -eWhy use winget? Because it’s the easiest way to get updates on Windows 11 without messing with manual downloads. Just make sure Microsoft Store and winget are both up-to-date, otherwise, this might fail.
Note: If winget isn’t working, you might need to install or update it via the App Installer from the Microsoft Store.
Step 4: Launch the new PowerShell version
Once installed, to test it out, try:
pwsh-previewThat opens the latest preview build. If it doesn’t run, double-check your PATH environment variables or restart Windows Terminal and try again. Some folks report that on first try, the new version doesn’t show up right away—rebooting sometimes helps. Not sure why it works like that, but Windows has to make things complicated sometimes.
Step 5: Confirm the update went through
Type pwsh-preview -v again to see the version number. If, for some reason, it’s still not updating or you’re seeing an old version, a quick reboot or running the command as administrator might fix it. Also, check the Windows Apps & Features list for PowerShell.
Tips for updating PowerShell on Windows 11
- Make sure your internet is working because winget pulls from online sources.
- Keep Windows itself updated — sometimes, PowerShell updates rely on latest Windows patches.
- If updates fail, check the Windows Update settings or run
sfc /scannowin Command Prompt to fix potential system file issues. - Use Windows Terminal for a cleaner, more modern command-line experience.
- If things go sideways, peek at Microsoft’s forums or GitHub issues for similar problems.
FAQs
What is PowerShell?
PowerShell is basically Windows’ Swiss Army knife for scripting and automation—kind of like a command-line super-tool for sysadmins and power users alike.
Why bother updating?
Because newer versions include security patches, performance boosts, and flashy new features. It’s like updating your car’s software but for your computer.
Can I use Command Prompt to do this?
Technically, yes, but it’s just easier through Windows Terminal with PowerShell commands. Command Prompt isn’t really the best tool for managing PowerShell itself.
What if the update crashes or hangs?
Double-check your permissions, make sure winget is working, and, of course, verify your internet connection. Sometimes, a quick reboot helps clear out stubborn bugs.
How often should I check for updates?
Honestly, once every few months is fine unless you keep seeing security alerts. Major Windows updates often come with new PowerShell versions anyway.
Summary
- Open Windows Terminal (preferably as admin).
- Check your current PowerShell version.
- Run
winget install --id Microsoft.PowerShell.Preview -eto grab the latest. - Type
pwsh-previewto launch it. - Verify with
pwsh-preview -v.
Conclusion
Getting PowerShell updated on Windows 11 might seem daunting at first, especially with all those command lines and dependencies, but it’s pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. The main takeaway? Updated PowerShell means better security, more features, and less headache down the road. Like tuning a guitar before a gig, it’s a small step that can make a big difference. Hopefully this shaves off a few hours for someone, and makes the whole process less of a puzzle next time.