HomeBlogWindows PowerShell or PowerShell 7 - A Comparison

Windows PowerShell or PowerShell 7 - A Comparison

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March 6, 2024

Nikita Kamyshnikov

Nikita "Nik" Kamyshnikov

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Automating repetitive IT tasks with PowerShell is a must for every With Microsoft Purview, you understand and govern data across your entire data estate how can you use PowerShell to leverage the full potential? Which of these ten tasks are you already managing with PowerShell?

In the world of automation and scripting, PowerShell has become a fundamental tool for administrators and developers alike. Originally developed by Microsoft as a task-based command-line shell and scripting language, it has evolved over the years into two distinct versions: Windows PowerShell and PowerShell Core (also known as PowerShell 7 in its latest iterations). This article will delve into the differences, pros, cons, and typical use cases for each version, concluding with insights on why and when one might choose to use each version.

Windows PowerShell: The Classic Automation Engine

Windows PowerShell is the original version of PowerShell, introduced in 2006. It was built on the .NET Framework and is a Windows-centric tool designed to automate the administration of Windows systems and applications. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of Windows PowerShell

Pros

  1. Native Integration with Windows: Windows PowerShell offers seamless integration with Windows operating systems and Microsoft applications, making it the go-to choice for managing Windows environments.
  2. Comprehensive Cmdlet Support: With a vast array of built-in cmdlets specifically for Windows, administrators can easily perform complex tasks without needing extensive scripting knowledge.
  3. Mature and Stable: Being the older version, Windows PowerShell is mature, stable, and widely documented, providing reliability for mission-critical systems.

Cons

  1. Limited Cross-Platform Compatibility: Windows PowerShell is built on the .NET Framework, making it less compatible with Linux and macOS environments.
  2. No Further Development: Microsoft has shifted its focus to developing PowerShell Core, meaning Windows PowerShell will not receive new features.

PowerShell Core | PowerShell 7

PowerShell Core (now PowerShell 7), introduced as an open-source project in 2016, is built on .NET Core (and later .NET 5+). It represents a significant shift, bringing PowerShell to a broader range of platforms, including Linux and macOS.

Pros

  1. Cross-Platform Support: PowerShell Core runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS, making it ideal for mixed-environment infrastructures.
  2. Modern Development: It continues to receive updates and new features, leveraging the latest advancements in .NET. Microsoft is strongly commited to PowerShell 7 and its further development.
  3. Enhanced Performance: PowerShell Core has been optimized for performance improvements compared to Windows PowerShell.
  4. Community-Driven: Since PowerShell 7 is open-source, many members of the wordwide PowerShell community contribute, enhance and improve the automation platform.

Cons

  1. Incompatibility with some Windows Modules: Not all Windows-specific cmdlets and modules are compatible with PowerShell Core, which can be a hurdle for some Windows-centric tasks.
  2. Missing Windows integration: Windows PowerShell comes as a initial part of the operating system. PowerShell 7 on the other hand needs to be deployed separately. This might not be a problem for small organizations, for large infrastructures this is a real pain. In some cases it's not possible at all to deploy PowerShell 7, because of internal regulations and policies.

Comparison and Contrast

The primary distinction between Windows PowerShell and PowerShell Core/7 lies in their platform compatibility and development focus. Windows PowerShell is deeply integrated with Windows, offering unparalleled support for Windows-specific tasks but limited cross-platform capabilities. On the other hand, PowerShell 7 extends its reach across different operating systems, catering to the growing demand for cross-platform solutions but at the expense of some Windows-specific functionalities.

Why Use Both?

Despite their differences, there are compelling reasons to use both Windows PowerShell and PowerShell Core/7, depending on the use case and platform.

  1. Platform-Specific Tasks: Use Windows PowerShell for tasks that are strictly within a Windows environment, especially when dealing with legacy systems or Windows-specific features. On the other hand, use PowerShell Core for tasks that require or benefit from cross-platform compatibility.
  2. Legacy vs. Modern Environments: In environments where legacy systems are still in operation, Windows PowerShell remains essential. Conversely, modern, cloud-based, and multi-platform environments will benefit more from PowerShell Core's flexibility and ongoing development.
  3. Community and Resources: Depending on the specific needs and issues faced, the broader community and existing scripts or modules available for each version may influence the choice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Windows PowerShell and PowerShell Core/7 have their places in the IT infrastructure automation landscape. While Windows PowerShell continues to be a robust tool for Windows-specific tasks, PowerShell Core/7's cross-platform capabilities make it indispensable in modern, diverse environments. By understanding the strengths, weaknesses, and typical use cases of each, IT professionals can make informed decisions, leveraging the right tool for the right task and ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in their automation and scripting efforts.

Ultimately, the choice between Windows PowerShell and PowerShell Core/7 does not have to be binary. Instead, using them in tandem, depending on the use case and platform, offers the best of both worlds, ensuring maximum compatibility, efficiency, and future-proofing in the ever-evolving landscape of IT infrastructure.

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