How to Check PowerShell Version in Windows 10: A Simple Guide

Need to find out which PowerShell version you’re running on your Windows 10 computer? It’s super simple and only takes a few quick steps. You’ll open PowerShell, enter a command, and get the version details right away. Let’s break it down and check that version!

How to Check PowerShell Version in Windows 10

In this section, you’ll learn the steps to identify the version of PowerShell installed on your Windows 10 machine. This involves opening PowerShell and running a specific command to display the version.

Step 1: Open PowerShell

The first thing you need to do is open PowerShell.

To do this, click on the Start menu, type “PowerShell” into the search bar, and select “Windows PowerShell” from the list of results.

Step 2: Enter the Command

Once PowerShell is open, type the following command and hit Enter:

$PSVersionTable.PSVersion

This command will display the PowerShell version installed on your system.

Step 3: Read the Output

After you press Enter, you will see a list of numbers. The first number represents the major version, the second is the minor version, and the others are build and revision numbers.

Step 4: Close PowerShell

After you have noted down the version, you can close the PowerShell window.

You can either type “exit” and press Enter or simply click the close button at the top right corner of the window.

Once these steps are completed, you’ll know exactly which version of PowerShell is installed on your Windows 10 computer.

Tips for How to Check PowerShell Version in Windows 10

1. 
   

   Use Admin Rights: If you’re having trouble opening PowerShell, try running it as an administrator.

   
   
2. 
   

   Different Windows Versions: The steps are similar for other Windows versions, but the interface might look slightly different.

   
   
3. 
   

   Update PowerShell: If you find you’re running an old version, consider updating to get new features and security improvements.

   
   
4. 
   

   Keep a Shortcut: Pin PowerShell to your taskbar for easier access in the future.

   
   
5. 
   

   Use PowerShell ISE: For more advanced usage, consider using PowerShell Integrated Scripting Environment (ISE), which offers additional features like debugging.

   
   

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PowerShell?

PowerShell is a task automation framework from Microsoft, consisting of a command-line shell and associated scripting language.

Why should I check my PowerShell version?

Knowing your PowerShell version helps ensure compatibility with scripts and modules you might want to use.

Can I have multiple versions of PowerShell installed?

Yes, you can have both Windows PowerShell and PowerShell Core installed on the same machine.

What’s the latest version of PowerShell?

As of now, PowerShell 7.2 is the latest stable version. However, it’s good to check the official Microsoft website for the most current version.

How do I update PowerShell?

You can download the latest version of PowerShell from the official Microsoft website and follow the installation instructions.

Summary

1. Open PowerShell.
2. Enter the command $PSVersionTable.PSVersion.
3. Read the output to check the version.
4. Close PowerShell.

Conclusion

Checking the PowerShell version in Windows 10 is a straightforward task that can be accomplished in just a few steps. This guide has provided you with the necessary commands and tips to ensure you know which version of PowerShell you’re running. Staying updated with your PowerShell version can offer performance improvements and new features that make your scripting tasks easier and more efficient.

If you’re regularly working with scripts or managing systems, knowing your PowerShell version is essential. Should you find that your version is outdated, take a few minutes to update it and explore the latest features. Keeping your tools up-to-date ensures that you’re working at peak efficiency and utilizing the best that Microsoft has to offer. For further reading, consider diving into the official PowerShell documentation or community forums to enhance your knowledge and skills. Happy scripting!