How to Update PowerShell on Windows 11?

In this tutorial, I will explain how to update PowerShell on Windows 11. You need to update PowerShell to get the latest features, security updates, and performance improvements.

There are several methods for updating PowerShell on Windows. Let me show you.

Before you start the update, ensure you have administrative privileges, as you will need to run the commands as an administrator. Additionally, you will need an internet connection.

Update PowerShell on Windows 11 using Winget

You can update PowerShell in Windows 11 using the Windows package manager (Winget).

Follow the steps below:

Step 1: Check Your Current PowerShell Version

First, let’s check which version of PowerShell is currently installed on your system. Open PowerShell and run the following command:

$PSVersionTable.PSVersion

This command will display the version number. If it’s outdated, proceed with the update.

You can see the current PowerShell version as shown in the screenshot below:

Step 2: Install Windows Package Manager (Winget)

Windows 11 comes with the Windows Package Manager (Winget) pre-installed. If you don’t have it, you can download Winget from the Microsoft Store.

Step 3: Update PowerShell Using Winget

One of the easiest ways to update PowerShell is by using Winget. Open a PowerShell window with administrative privileges and run the following command:

winget install --id Microsoft.Powershell --source winget

This command will download and install the latest version of PowerShell. Once the installation is complete, restart your computer to apply the changes.

Step 4: Verify the Installation

After restarting, open PowerShell and verify the installation by running the version check command again:

$PSVersionTable.PSVersion

You should see the updated version number.

Now, let me show you some other methods to update PowerShell on Windows.

Check out Get Default Browser Using PowerShell

Update PowerShell in Windows Using the MSI Package

You can also update PowerShell in Windows 11 using an MSI package. Follow the steps below:

1. Download the MSI Package: Visit the PowerShell GitHub releases page and download the latest MSI package for Windows.
2. Run the Installer: Double-click the downloaded MSI file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. Verify the Installation: Open PowerShell and run the version check command.

Check out List Windows Features Using PowerShell

Update PowerShell in Windows 11 Using the ZIP Package

This is another method to update PowerShell in Windows 11. Follow the below steps to update PowerShell using the Zip package.

1. Download the ZIP Package: Go to the PowerShell GitHub releases page and download the ZIP package for Windows.
2. Extract the ZIP File: Extract the contents of the ZIP file to a directory of your choice.
3. Run PowerShell: Navigate to the extracted directory and run pwsh.exe.

Update PowerShell Using the Command Line

If you prefer using the command line, you can update PowerShell by running a script. Open PowerShell with administrative privileges and run the following command:

iex "& { $(irm https://aka.ms/install-powershell.ps1) } -UseMSI"

This command downloads and installs the latest version of PowerShell using the MSI package.

Check out Check for Windows Updates Using PowerShell

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

From my experience, let me show you some common issues you might face while updating PowerShell and how to fix it.

Here are some common problems and solutions:

Issue 1: Permission Denied

If you receive a “permission denied” error, ensure you’re running PowerShell as an administrator. Right-click the PowerShell icon and select “Run as administrator.”

Issue 2: Installation Fails

If the installation fails, check your internet connection and try again. You can also download the installer manually from the PowerShell GitHub releases page.

Issue 3: Version Not Updating

If the version number doesn’t update after installation, restart your computer and check again. Sometimes, a reboot is necessary to apply the changes.

Conclusion

For most users, the recommended method for updating PowerShell on Windows 11 is to use the winget command-line tool, which I also recommend. But you can also use the other methods I have explained above to update PowerShell in Windows. The updated version of PowerShell ensures access to the latest features, performance enhancements, and critical security updates.

You may also find the following tutorials useful:

• Install Windows Updates Using PowerShell
• Install .NET Framework 3.5 Using PowerShell
• Restart a Windows Service Using PowerShell

Bijay Kumar

Bijay Kumar is an esteemed author and the mind behind PowerShellFAQs.com, where he shares his extensive knowledge and expertise in PowerShell, with a particular focus on SharePoint projects. Recognized for his contributions to the tech community, Bijay has been honored with the prestigious Microsoft MVP award. With over 15 years of experience in the software industry, he has a rich professional background, having worked with industry giants such as HP and TCS. His insights and guidance have made him a respected figure in the world of software development and administration. Read more.