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PowerShell is an open-source scripting and automation framework developed by Microsoft, primarily used in the managing and configuring of Windows systems.

What is PowerShell?

PowerShell is a versatile Microsoft program that has played a significant role in how we manage processes and tasks in the modern computing era.1 In contrast to the past reliance on graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for process management, PowerShell steps in to help address these limitations. It empowers users by enabling task automation, facilitating remote commands, and promoting the management of "infrastructure as code" (IaC).2This allows for consistent, scalable, and reproducible infrastructure configurations. Moreover, PowerShell is helpful in DevOps because it helps automate tasks, making it easier to work with data from different sources. Microsoft is deeply committed to its development and integration across its product ecosystem, making it a valuable tool for modern IT professionals.

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Browse online PowerShell courses

edX does not currently offer courses on this topic. However, new options are added to the course catalog regularly. Please check back soon for updates or search through related topics for other opportunities to build new skills.

PowerShell course curriculum

Learning how to use PowerShell can be a powerful tool when incorporated into IT management and system automations. Topics that you might cover in your course could include a wide range of subjects, from fundamental concepts such as scripting basics, cmdlets, and syntax, to more advanced topics like remote administration, task automation, and scripting best practices — in order to allow for proficiency in managing a Windows-based environment.

More specialized courses can focus on tasks such as system administration, data retrieval, and configuration management, while providing insights into “infrastructure as code” (IaC), and integrating the PowerShell program with other technologies. The goal of each course is to ultimately prepare learners for real-world IT challenges, while equipping them to streamline their operations.

Learning about how to use PowerShell can supplement your current Microsoft programming knowledge. edX offers a variety of educational courses and programs for learners interested in studying related topics, as well as a host of other disciplines. A boot camp can provide flexible hands-on learning for those who want to upskill quickly, while executive education courses are designed for busy professionals. You can also pursue a more comprehensive curriculum in a bachelor’s degree program or, for more advanced learners, a master’s degree program. Find the right learning path for you.

Explore careers in PowerShell

PowerShell proficiency can open up various opportunities, especially in IT, system administration, and automation-focused roles. Roles using PowerShell could include:

  • Systems administrator: Automates routine tasks, manages server environments, troubleshoots issues, scripts server configurations, monitors user account management, and performs routine system maintenance.

  • Network administrator: Automates network monitoring, handles configuration changes, troubleshoots, manages network devices, configures firewalls, and monitors network traffic.

  • DevOps engineer: Streamlines development and deployment processes, creates and manages automation scripts for continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD), performs infrastructure as code (IaC), and handles container orchestration.

  • Automation specialist: Creates and maintains automation solutions across various IT domains, designs and implements scripts and workflows to optimize business processes.

  • Database administrator: Automates database maintenance tasks, handles backup and restore operations, and oversees data migrations.

  • Software developer: Automates build processes, configures development environments, and scripts repetitive coding tasks.

The IT industry values versatile automation programming skills, so take time to research the positions you hope to pursue before you decide on a learning path. Let edX help you achieve your career goals.

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    1. Is PowerShell the Future? An In-Depth Overview of its Benefits and Limitations for Modern Scripting. (2023). localhost Retrieved September 20, 2023.

    2. Unlocking the Potential: Is PowerShell Turing Complete and Its Implications for Scripting Excellence. (2023). localhost. Retrieved September 20, 2023.