Upgrade powershell version 2.0 to version 4.0+ using cmd or powershell

3 min read 25-10-2024

the ifix

Upgrade powershell version 2.0 to version 4.0+ using cmd or powershell

If you're still using PowerShell version 2.0, it’s time to consider upgrading to a more advanced version, such as 4.0 or even higher. Upgrading ensures you have access to the latest features, security updates, and performance improvements. In this article, we’ll explore how to upgrade your PowerShell version using either the Command Prompt (CMD) or PowerShell itself.

Understanding the Upgrade Process

PowerShell 2.0 is quite outdated, and many modern scripts and tools rely on features introduced in later versions. Upgrading to PowerShell 4.0 or higher opens up numerous capabilities that are not available in the older version.

Original Problem Code

The original request did not provide specific code. However, the process generally involves using Windows Management Framework (WMF) to install newer versions of PowerShell. Here’s how we can do it:

Step 1: Check Your Current PowerShell Version

Before upgrading, it's essential to know which version of PowerShell you're currently running. You can check your version using the following command:

$PSVersionTable.PSVersion

Step 2: Download the Windows Management Framework

To upgrade PowerShell, you will need to download the Windows Management Framework that includes the version of PowerShell you want. For PowerShell 4.0, you can find the download link on the Microsoft Download Center.

Step 3: Install WMF 4.0 Using CMD or PowerShell

After downloading the appropriate package for your system, you can proceed with the installation. Here’s how to install it using both CMD and PowerShell:

Using Command Prompt (CMD)

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Navigate to the directory where you downloaded the WMF installer.
Run the following command:
```
WMF4.0-KBXXXXX-x64.msu /quiet /norestart
```
(Replace XXXXX with the actual KB number from the file name.)

Using PowerShell

Open PowerShell as an administrator.
Navigate to the downloaded installer location.

Execute the command:

Start-Process -FilePath "WMF4.0-KBXXXXX-x64.msu" -ArgumentList "/quiet", "/norestart" -Verb RunAs

Step 4: Restart Your System

Once the installation is complete, you need to restart your computer to ensure all changes take effect.

Step 5: Verify Your PowerShell Upgrade

After rebooting, open PowerShell again and check the version to confirm the upgrade was successful:

$PSVersionTable.PSVersion

Additional Analysis

By upgrading to PowerShell 4.0 or higher, you’ll gain access to several new features, such as:

Desired State Configuration (DSC): This is a powerful management framework that allows you to define the desired state of your systems and automate configuration management.
Improved Cmdlets: Many cmdlets have been improved in terms of performance and usability.
Support for Remote Management: Enhanced remoting capabilities allow for better management of multiple machines simultaneously.

Conclusion

Upgrading PowerShell from version 2.0 to 4.0 or higher is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your scripting and automation capabilities. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your system is equipped with the latest features and security improvements.

Useful Resources

By keeping your PowerShell version up-to-date, you empower yourself with the tools needed to automate tasks efficiently and securely. Happy scripting!