How to Open PowerShell in Windows 11
Windows PowerShell is a built-in command-line tool in Windows 11 that lets you run commands and automate routine tasks. You can open PowerShell in 6 different ways, including from the Start menu , the Quick Link menu, or the Run box.
Open PowerShell in Windows 11 by searching for “powershell.exe” and clicking the app, or by pressing Win+R, typing “powershell.exe,” and pressing Enter. You can also open it from File Explorer by navigating to 📁C:\
Why use PowerShell?
Command-line interfaces offer direct text control over the operating system, making complex maintenance faster than clicking through graphical menus. Knowing how to open PowerShell remains a valuable skill even for everyday users.
What happens when done?
Users gain a robust way to control hidden settings and automate repetitive work.
Open PowerShell in Windows Terminal
Windows 11 uses a program called Windows Terminal to host command-line utilities. Windows Terminal serves as the main hub for PowerShell and the Command Prompt. Windows Terminal normally opens PowerShell by default.
How to set PowerShell as the default terminal
- Open Windows Terminal.
- Click the down arrow in the tab bar and select Settings.
- Under the Startup section, find the Default profile dropdown.
- Select Windows PowerShell and click Save.
Open PowerShell from Windows Search
- Open Windows Search or press the Win+S.
- Type
powershell.exeinto the box. - Click on the Windows PowerShell app to open it.
Open PowerShell from the Run Box
- Press the Win+R on your keyboard.
- Type
powershell.exeinto the box. - Press Enter.
Open PowerShell from File Explorer
- Open File Explorer or press the Win+E.
- Go to this path:
C:\Windows\System32\WindowsPowerShell\v1.0 - Find the file named
powershell.exeand double-click it.
PowerShell ISE vs. Terminal
PowerShell ISE (Integrated Scripting Environment) is a legacy tool for writing and testing scripts. Scripts function as mini-programs designed to run locally. Searching for powershell_ise.exe opens this environment. However, Windows Terminal remains the modern, recommended way to execute commands in Windows 11.
Understanding Execution Policy
Windows restricts scripts from running by default to keep the system secure, though this behavior can be modified. This setting is called the Execution Policy. Administrators frequently adjust this configuration when troubleshooting script execution errors.
Summary
Windows Terminal is the easiest way to open PowerShell Windows 11 because it runs the command line in a modern tabbed window. You can also start PowerShell quickly using the Start menu search bar, the Run box, or the hidden quick link menu. Most people prefer using the search bar because it is fast and always available.- PowerShell is a command-line tool for managing your Windows 11 system.
- You can open it using Search, the Run box, File Explorer , or the Power User Menu.
- Using Windows Terminal is the modern, recommended way to access it.
- Always remember that some tasks require you to run the program as an administrator.
- Check your Execution Policy if you encounter errors when running scripts.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard is a writer at Geek Rewind who turns complex IT tasks into clear, step-by-step guides. He draws on years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, focusing on Windows, Linux and WordPress: the problems people actually run into, and the fixes that work. His server and WordPress guides come from systems he runs himself. Richard builds and maintains the platform behind Geek Rewind, from its Ubuntu servers and Nginx configuration to its custom WordPress plugins. Many new tutorials start with readers' questions, and he's always glad to answer them in the comments.
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