How to Run PowerShell Scripts – 10 Ways

Last Updated on August 7, 2025 by Arnav Sharma

PowerShell is a powerful scripting tool used by IT professionals to automate tasks, configure systems, and manage resources efficiently. Whether you’re new to PowerShell or an experienced user, knowing multiple ways to execute PowerShell scripts can enhance your productivity and troubleshooting skills. Here are ten practical methods to run PowerShell scripts, each suited for different scenarios.

1. Using the Command Prompt

To run a PowerShell script from the Command Prompt, you must specify PowerShell before the script’s path. This method is straightforward: open Command Prompt and type the following command, ensuring to use the full path to your script:

PowerShell -File "C:pathtoscriptPowerShellScript.ps1"

This method displays the script output directly in the Command Prompt window, which can be handy for quick tasks.

2. Directly in PowerShell

A common way to run scripts is directly within the PowerShell console. Open PowerShell, navigate to the directory containing your script, and execute it by typing:

.YourScriptName.ps1

This approach is beneficial when you’re working within a PowerShell session and want to run scripts quickly.

3. Through Windows PowerShell ISE

For those who prefer a graphical interface with script editing capabilities, PowerShell ISE is the perfect tool. Open your script in ISE and click the green play button to run it. ISE displays both the script and output in separate panes, allowing for easy debugging.

4. From Windows File Explorer

If you’re browsing your files in Windows Explorer, you can simply right-click your PowerShell script and choose ‘Run with PowerShell’. This is one of the easiest methods, although it closes the PowerShell window immediately after the script finishes unless modified with a pause command.

5. Using Task Scheduler

For scripts that need to run at scheduled times or intervals, use the Windows Task Scheduler. Create a new task that triggers at your desired time, pointing the action to start PowerShell with the specific script by using the powershell.exewith your script as the argument.

6. As an Administrator

Some scripts require elevated privileges to run with PowerShell effectively. Right-click on PowerShell and select ‘Run as administrator’ before executing your script. This method ensures the script has the necessary permissions to perform tasks that affect system settings.

7. Through PowerShell Remoting

Run scripts on remote machines without leaving your desk using PowerShell Remoting. Use the Invoke-Command cmdlet to execute scripts across several computers, which is extremely useful for network administrators managing multiple servers or workstations.

8. Using Shortcuts

For frequently used scripts, create shortcuts on your desktop. Right-click on your desktop, select ‘New > Shortcut’, and enter a command like the following:

powershell.exe -File "C:pathtoyourscript.ps1"

This creates a clickable icon that runs your script instantly.

9. Run Scripts via PowerShell Modules

If your script is part of a larger set of functions, consider packaging it as a PowerShell module. Load your module with Import-Module and call the script functions directly from the PowerShell command line. This is a structured way to manage and distribute your scripts.

10. Editing Execution Policies

Due to security reasons, you might find that running scripts is disabled on your system by default. To change this, set an appropriate execution policy using the Set-ExecutionPolicy cmdlet, like so:

Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned

This setting allows locally created scripts to run while blocking unsigned scripts downloaded from the internet.

Execution policies in PowerShell are designed to control the conditions under which PowerShell loads configuration files and runs scripts, ensuring that only trusted scripts run. This feature helps prevent the execution of malicious scripts. Here’s an overview of the different execution policies available and how they can be used:

Execution Policy Options

1. Restricted
   • This is the default setting. Under this policy, PowerShell does not run any scripts. This setting is useful on systems that never use scripts for automation.
2. AllSigned
   • Requires that all scripts and configuration files are signed by a trusted publisher. This policy is beneficial in environments where security is paramount, and it ensures that only verified code is executed.
3. RemoteSigned
   • With this policy, scripts created on the local computer do not need to be signed. However, scripts that have been downloaded from the internet must be signed by a trusted publisher. This policy strikes a balance between flexibility and security, allowing users to write and execute their own scripts while still protecting from untrusted sources.
4. Unrestricted
   • Runs any script without any restrictions, effectively allowing you to run a script in the current session freely. While this setting provides the most flexibility, it also poses a risk if scripts, especially those not signed scripts, are not adequately reviewed and vetted. It will still warn the user before running scripts downloaded from the internet.
5. Bypass
   • Nothing is blocked and there are no warnings or prompts. This policy is typically used by administrators when they need to execute scripts in environments where other policies are too restrictive and interfere with scripts that need to run freely.
6. Undefined
   • No execution policy is set in the current scope. If all scopes are set to Undefined, the default is Restricted.

Each method of running PowerShell scripts has its context and benefits, enabling you to execute a PowerShell script efficiently under various conditions. Whether you need to automate tasks, perform quick operations, or manage remote systems, PowerShell offers a versatile range of execution options to suit your needs. As you become more familiar with these methods, you’ll find that PowerShell is an indispensable tool in your IT toolkit.