How to Upgrade PowerShell on Windows 10 and 11

PowerShell is a powerful command-line shell and scripting language developed by Microsoft, used by IT professionals and developers to automate tasks and manage system configurations. But older versions lack many of the performance, security, and compatibility improvements found in the latest PowerShell 7.x (also known as PowerShell Core). If you’re still using Windows PowerShell 5.1 or an outdated version of PowerShell 7, upgrading is essential.

Why Upgrade to the Latest PowerShell Version?

Enhanced Performance and Features

Newer PowerShell versions offer better scripting capabilities, improved error handling, and cross-platform support. PowerShell 7 runs on .NET 6+ and is regularly updated with bug fixes and feature enhancements.

Improved Security

Each release includes security patches that make your system less vulnerable to exploits, especially when running remote commands or scripts downloaded from external sources.

Compatibility With Modern Tools

The latest PowerShell version supports modern modules like Azure CLI, Git, Docker, and WSL, which older versions may not handle well or at all.

How to Check Your Current PowerShell Version

Before upgrading, it’s important to see which version is currently installed.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
   Type the following command:
   $PSVersionTable.PSVersion
2. The output will show your current PowerShell version.
   

If it’s below 7.0, an upgrade is strongly recommended.

How to Upgrade PowerShell on Windows 10/11

Option 1: Upgrade Using the MSI Installer (Recommended)

This is the most straightforward and Windows-friendly method.

Steps:

1. Visit the official PowerShell GitHub Releases page.
   
2. Download the latest .msi installer for your system architecture (usually x64).
   
3. Run the installer and follow the prompts to complete the installation.
   
4. After installation, open the Start menu and search for PowerShell 7 to verify it’s been upgraded.
   

Note: The upgraded PowerShell installs as a separate app, so you can still use Windows PowerShell 5.1 side-by-side.

Option 2: Install PowerShell via Windows Package Manager (Winget)

For advanced users or those who prefer the terminal, install PowerShell via Winget

Steps:

1. Open Windows Terminal (Admin).
   Run the following command:
   winget install –id Microsoft.PowerShell –source winget
2. Wait for the installation to complete. Once done, PowerShell 7 will be available as a new app.

Option 3: Upgrade via Microsoft Store (Only if Available)

On some Windows 11 systems, PowerShell 7 can be installed via the Microsoft Store.

Steps:

1. Open Microsoft Store from the Start menu.
   
2. Search for PowerShell.
   
3. Click Install or Update if it’s already present.

How to Set PowerShell 7 as the Default Terminal

After upgrading, you might want to make PowerShell 7 the default shell in Windows Terminal.

1. Open Windows Terminal.
   
2. Click the dropdown arrow > Settings.
   
3. Under Startup, set Default profile to PowerShell 7.
   
4. Click Save and restart the terminal.

Best Practices After Upgrading PowerShell

• Keep it updated: PowerShell 7 uses a separate update process; check GitHub regularly or enable auto-updates through your preferred installer.
  
• Install needed modules: After the upgrade, reinstall or import your essential modules.
  
• Set execution policy appropriately: Use Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned -Scope CurrentUser for safer script execution.

How to Automatically Fix PowerShell Errors and System Issues with Fortect

PowerShell upgrades can sometimes lead to system conflicts, execution issues, or corrupted environment variables, especially if your PC already has hidden problems.

How Fortect Helps:

Fortect is a third-party antivirus and optimization tool that goes beyond traditional virus protection. It automatically:

• Scans your PC for malware, corrupt PowerShell files, and system irregularities
  
• Repairs affected Windows components that PowerShell relies on
  
• Cleans up junk files and optimizes system performance post-installation
  

How to Use Fortect:

1. Download and install Fortect.
   
2. Launch it and click Start Scan.
   
3. Fortect will identify issues, including damaged PowerShell components and registry errors.
   
4. Click Repair All to fix problems and stabilize your system.
   

Using Fortect after a PowerShell upgrade ensures smoother performance and fewer errors.

Keep PowerShell Up-to-Date for Better Performance and Security

Upgrading to PowerShell 7 is more than just a technical chore; it’s a step toward better performance, stronger security, and broader compatibility. Whether you use PowerShell casually or for intensive scripting, having the latest version is essential.

And if you ever experience issues after the upgrade or want to avoid system-level conflicts, tools like Fortect can safeguard your system and keep it running efficiently.