How to Install VBScript in Windows 11
VBScript (Visual Basic Scripting Edition) is an old coding language Microsoft made to help you automate tasks and run legacy programs in Windows 11. If you try to run a script file ending in .vbs and see an error, the built-in Windows Script Host tool is likely turned off on your PC.
Turning this feature back on takes just a few clicks in your settings or the registry, and it gets your old scripts working again right away.
You can install VBScript in Windows 11 by going to Settings Apps Optional features, clicking “View features,” searching for VBScript, checking the box, and clicking Install. Alternatively, use the DISM command in Windows Terminal: DISM /Online /Add-Capability /CapabilityName:VBSCRIPT~~~~.
Why use VBScript?
Microsoft is phasing out VBScript, an older scripting language, to boost system security. VBScript is typically needed only when working with legacy software or old business scripts that cannot run otherwise.
Security and Deprecation Roadmap
Microsoft stopped updating VBScript, meaning it receives no further improvements and poses a security risk, which explains why it is missing by default in Windows 11.
Install or Uninstall via Settings
Open Settings by pressing Win+I, then head to Apps and select Optional features. Click View features, search for VBScript, and check the box to install it .
- Open the Windows Settings app by pressing Win+I.
- Click on Apps on the left side.
- Select the Optional features tile.
- Click the View features button.
- Search for VBScript, check the box, and click Next.
- Click Install to finish.
To uninstall later, return to this menu, find VBScript, and select Uninstall.
Install or Uninstall via Command Line
Run Windows Terminal as an administrator to handle this via the command line.
Paste this command to install the feature:
DISM /Online /Add-Capability /CapabilityName:VBSCRIPT~~~~
To remove it, use this command:
DISM /Online /Remove-Capability /CapabilityName:VBSCRIPT~~~~
Enterprise Management (GPO & Intune)
System administrators can deploy VBScript across multiple network computers at once using Group Policy (GPO) or Microsoft Intune. This keeps legacy applications working in a company setting while maintaining control over what gets installed.
Troubleshooting 24H2 Errors
VBScript installation status on Windows 11 24H2 can be checked in PowerShell. Run the command 'Get-WindowsCapability -Online -Name VBSCRIPT~~~~'. If the output shows 'NotPresent', use DISM to install VBScript. Ensure your user account has administrator rights to complete the installation and fix remaining issues.
Get-WindowsCapability -Online -Name VBSCRIPT~~~~
If the status shows 'NotPresent', use the DISM command mentioned earlier to install it. If errors persist, confirm that your user account has local administrator rights.
Summary
VBScript is an older tool not included in Windows 11 by default, but Optional Features or the command line allows for manual installation when old programs require it.
Is VBScript permanently removed in 🪟 Windows 11 24H2?
VBScript is not permanently removed, but it no longer installs by default. It remains available as an optional feature to manually add back when running older scripts or legacy applications that rely on this specific scripting environment.
What are the security risks of enabling VBScript?
VBScript poses a security risk because it lacks modern protections. Attackers often leverage VBScript to execute malicious code on computers. Keeping it disabled reduces the attack surface of the system, making successful execution of harmful software much harder.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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