Windows commands can be combined into repeatable workflows for system administration and routine task automation. PowerShell provides a console for running cmdlets and scripts, with pipelines that pass results from one command to the next.
Cmdlets and pipelines
Cmdlets are PowerShell's built-in command units for tasks such as changing system settings and managing Windows resources. A pipeline links commands, passing one cmdlet's output along so a later cmdlet can work with it. This lets a workflow combine several operations in one command sequence.
PowerShell works with structured objects as well as text. That means a command's results can be filtered, sorted, or passed on as data instead of being handled only as lines of console output.
Scripts and scheduled tasks
Scripts put command sequences into reusable files. They can automate recurring work such as configuring devices, changing groups of settings, or generating reports. PowerShell can run scripts on a schedule or in response to events, so routine actions do not have to be entered manually each time.
- Use variables to hold values that commands need.
- Use functions to package reusable operations.
- Use control structures to direct script behavior.
Modules and administration
Modules extend the commands available in a PowerShell session; administrators can also create their own. Module-based workflows can connect PowerShell with services and platforms including Azure, Exchange, SQL, AWS, VMware, and Google Cloud.
For Windows directory administration, PowerShell commands can manage Active Directory users and groups. This makes command sequences applicable to account and group tasks as well as local system configuration.
Pros
- Chains cmdlets into workflows with pipelines
- Runs scripts on schedules or in response to events
- Adds functionality through modules
- Supports Active Directory administration
System requirements: Windows 10, Windows 11
What are PowerShell cmdlets?
Cmdlets are commands for carrying out tasks such as configuring Windows settings. Their output can be passed through a pipeline to other cmdlets.
Can PowerShell automate recurring tasks?
Yes. Scripts can automate repeated work and run on a schedule or in response to an event.
Can PowerShell manage Active Directory?
Yes. Active Directory users and groups can also be managed from PowerShell.