Introduction to Windows PowerShell 5.1 from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

Understand the powershell command line
How to write powershell scripts to automate redundant tasks
Install and update windows powershell
Learn the basics of windows powershell 5.1
Introduction to the text based console and intelligent scripting environment (ise)
Utilize the powershell help system
Finally understand powershell syntax

Understand objects, properties and methods
Understand the powershell pipeline
Create and manage active directory users with powershell
Create and delete organizational units with powershell
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Understand the powershell command line
How to write powershell scripts to automate redundant tasks
Install and update windows powershell
Learn the basics of windows powershell 5.1
Introduction to the text based console and intelligent scripting environment (ise)
Utilize the powershell help system
Finally understand powershell syntax
Understand objects, properties and methods
Understand the powershell pipeline
Create and manage active directory users with powershell
Create and delete organizational units with powershell
Show more
Show less

Syllabus

The student will be introduced to the "Power of Powershell", and will get an understanding of the System Requirements

Welcome to PowerShell for Beginners and Administrators Course. This course will improve how you manage your IT environment, and it will get your very familiar with PowerShell and how to find all the right commands using the PowerShell built-in help system!

In this lecture we will discuss the Windows PowerShell requirements for a production and our lab environment

In this lecture we'll get you up and running with PowerShell no matter what your background.

Often I receive questions like why are we still using an older version of PowerShell? I answer that question and talk briefly about Microsoft VSC.

In this lecture, we will be installing and updating Windows Powershell. PowerShell is already installed on Windows 7, Server 2008, and every release since then.

In this lecture you will learn how to configure and customize the text based console. And learn some new commands as well.

In this lecture we complete our console configuration and then we demonstrate tab completion.

This is when the fun begins with an introduction to the awesome ISE (intelligent Scripting Environment)

In this lecture, we will be continuing from the previous lecture!

In this lesson, you will learn how to show you how to install Visual Studio Code and the PowerShell extension for easier script development. You are free to use either the ISE or VS Code, but we at Server Academy strongly prefer VS Code.

In this lecture, we will be going over getting help and finding commands.

In this lecture, we will continue going over getting help and finding commands.

In this lecture, we will be finishing up with Getting Help and Finding Commands.

In this lecture, we will be going over Help System Lab Questions.

In this lecture, We will be going over the Help System Lab Answers!

In this lecture, we will continue going over the Help System Lab answers!

In this lecture, we will be going over the Command Syntax Part 1!

In this lecture, we will be going over the Command Syntax Part 2.

In this lecture, we will be going over the Command Syntax Part 3.

In this lecture, we will be going over Command Syntax Lab Questions.

In this lecture we will be reviewing the Command Syntax Lab Answers.

In this lecture we will be going over Objects, Properties, and Methods Part 1.

In this lecture, we will be going over Objects, Properties and Methods Part 2.

In this lecture we will be finishing up talking about Objects, Properties, and Methods.

In this lecture, we will be continuing on about the Pipeline.

In this lecture you will learn about PowerShell Providers. There are a whole range of cmdlets that are used with PS providers. Throughout this section there are many hands-on exercises that will enjoy, with the intent to challenge you.

In this lecture you will learn how to use PSDrive. The PSDrive cmdlet allows you to view, create and remove PowerShell drives. These drives can represent file systems, a registry hive and a network share. You will create a persistent PSDrive on your computer that shows up in Windows Explorer.

In this lecture you will learn and use the Location, New Item and the Content cmdlets. You will add and remove items from a stack, explore the windows registry, create files and folders and add content to files that you create using these cmdlets.

In this lecture you will be creating registry keys and adding properties to the Windows registry. Then you will be using the Resolve-Path to find out if files exist and the Split-path cmdlets to list all the files and folders in a directory.

In this lecture you are going to learn about PowerShell variables. You will learn how to declare the variables as well as how you might want to use them.

In this lecture, you are going to learn about PowerShell Arrays. Arrays are one of those things you MUST understand in order to be proficient with PowerShell.

In this lecture I am going to give you a challenge assignment. This challenge will re-enforce what you have learned so far about PowerShell Variables.

This lecture includes the solution to the previous Variable challenges. Make sure you watch this lecture AFTER you attempt to complete the challenge!

In this lecture, you are going to learn about PowerShell For Loops.

In this lecture, I will show you how to create PowerShell while loops!

In this lecture, you are going to learn about PowerShell Do-While and Do-Until loops. You will also learn the primary difference between a Do-While and a While Loop.

In this lecture you will learn about PowerShell ForEach Loops. We can use these loops to iterate over elements inside of an array and I will be demonstrating exactly how to do this!

In this lecture, I will talk to you about if you should or shouldn't watch this section. This section is designed specifically for those of you that don't have access to a production network. This section will help you set up your own lab, so that you can get hands on experience.

In this lecture, I will be showing you how to download and install Oracle VM VirtualBox.

This lecture will provide you with a way to download Server 2019. Microsoft has temporarily removed the public download link and this is a replacement download only for lab use.

In this lecture, we will be downloading and installing Windows Server 2019.

In this lecture, we will be creating our Virtual Network with VirtualBox.

In this lecture, we will be creating our first Virtual Machine for our lab.

These command-line commands can be used to retrieve network-related information on a Windows system

This one-liner searches the Windows registry and gets all the installed applications.

Lists all running processes on the local machine

Checks to see if the Active Directory module is present on a system.

If you want to know what scheduled tasks are running on your server use this

In this lecture I will show you how to create a scheduled task using Powershell

In this lecture you will learn how to remove or disable media player on your Windows production server

This PowerShell script retrieves a list of installed KB patches (knowledgebase patches) on a Windows computer.

In this lecture you are going to learn how you can configure your domain PowerShell Execution Policy with Group Policy.

This lecture will explain what you will learn in this section.

In this lesson, you will learn how to create a File Select dialog. This makes for a more user-friendly experience when you're running your file manipulation scripts that you will write later in this section.

In this lesson, we will cover the basics of working with CSV files in PowerShell. We will show you how to import and export CSV data, as well as how to manipulate CSV data using PowerShell cmdlets.

In this lesson, we will cover the basics of working with JSON files in PowerShell. We will show you how to read, write, and modify JSON files using PowerShell cmdlets. You will also learn how to work with JSON data structures such as objects and arrays.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Develops core PowerShell scripting skills which are in-demand in the IT industry

Strong foundation for beginners who want to learn PowerShell scripting

Covers essential PowerShell concepts such as syntax, objects, and the pipeline

Provides hands-on labs to reinforce learning and build practical skills

Introduces advanced topics such as Desired State Configuration and Active Directory administration

Requires prior knowledge of basic IT concepts and Windows operating systems

Reviews summary

Foundational powershell 5.1 for it automation

According to students, this course offers a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell 5.1, particularly beneficial for beginners looking to automate IT tasks. Learners praise the clear explanations and the practical hands-on labs, especially those focused on Active Directory management and setting up an on-premises IT lab, which are highly valuable for real-world application. However, a significant number of reviewers note that the course's exclusive focus on PowerShell 5.1 feels outdated, with some parts of the initial setup being repetitive or slow-paced. Despite this, for those needing a thorough introduction to this specific version, it remains a highly recommended starting point.

Instructor explains complex concepts clearly and effectively for learners.

"The instructor explains complex topics like the PowerShell pipeline and Active Directory management in a way that's easy to grasp."

"His explanations are clear, and the pace is perfect, which made it very easy for me to follow along."

"I found the instructor to be very knowledgeable, and his teaching style was effective."

Emphasizes hands-on learning through useful lab setups and AD management.

"The hands-on labs, especially setting up the IT lab, are invaluable for real-world application and understanding."

"The labs helped me apply what I learned immediately, and I found the section on creating users in AD particularly useful."

"I appreciated the attention to detail on topics like the pipeline and objects, along with the very useful labs."

Provides a strong base for PowerShell beginners and IT professionals.

"This course is incredibly thorough and practical, giving me a strong start with PowerShell."

"As a complete beginner, this course walked me through PowerShell from scratch, building my confidence."

"It covers the basics well, and the examples are helpful, providing me with a solid foundation in PowerShell 5.1."

Early lectures may have distracting audio quality for some learners.

"The audio quality in some early lectures was distracting, making it harder to focus at times."

Some lectures are slow or repetitive, especially initial setup sections.

"Some parts felt a bit slow, but overall it provided a solid foundation."

"I noticed some explanations were a bit repetitive, which made certain sections drag on."

"The initial setup sections were unnecessarily long for my preference."

Primarily focuses on PowerShell 5.1, which some learners find dated.

"I found that it focuses heavily on PowerShell 5.1, which feels a bit old now for current industry standards."

"The content feels outdated; PowerShell 5.1 is not what most businesses are exclusively using today."

"While the concepts are still relevant, I think a mention of PowerShell Core or newer versions would be beneficial."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Windows PowerShell 5.1 with these activities:

Organize Course Materials

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Stay organized by compiling and reviewing the course materials.

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Create a folder for the course
Arrange notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams in the folder
Review the materials regularly to reinforce understanding

Explore the Windows PowerShell Help System

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Become familiar with PowerShell's help system to quickly find commands and information.

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Open the PowerShell console
Type 'Get-Help' followed by a command or keyword
Navigate the help output to find the desired information

Create a PowerShell Automation Project

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Apply your PowerShell skills to solve a real-world problem.

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Identify a problem or task that can be automated
Design and develop a PowerShell solution
Implement and test the solution

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Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Windows PowerShell 5.1 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

IT Administrator

An IT Administrator is responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting computer systems and networks. They ensure that all systems are running smoothly and that users have access to the resources they need. This course can be useful for aspiring IT Administrators as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, IT Administrators can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to maintain a reliable and efficient IT infrastructure.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Administrator

Systems Administrator

A Systems Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining computer systems and networks. They ensure that all systems are running smoothly and that users have access to the resources they need. This course can be useful for aspiring Systems Administrators as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Systems Administrators can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to maintain a reliable and efficient IT infrastructure.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Network Administrator

A Network Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks. They ensure that all networks are running smoothly and that users have access to the resources they need. This course can be useful for aspiring Network Administrators as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Network Administrators can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to maintain a reliable and efficient IT infrastructure.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

DevOps Engineer

A DevOps Engineer is responsible for bridging the gap between development and operations teams. They help to automate and streamline the software development lifecycle, ensuring that new features and updates are released quickly and efficiently. This course can be helpful for aspiring DevOps Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, DevOps Engineers can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their teams to deliver high-quality software products.

See salaries and explore the career path for DevOps Engineer

Security Analyst

A Security Analyst is responsible for identifying and mitigating security risks. They work to protect organizations from cyber attacks and data breaches. This course can be useful for aspiring Security Analysts as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Security Analysts can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to maintain a secure IT environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst

Cloud Engineer

A Cloud Engineer is responsible for designing, deploying, and managing cloud-based systems. They work to ensure that cloud-based applications and services are running smoothly and efficiently. This course can be useful for aspiring Cloud Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Cloud Engineers can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to build and maintain reliable and efficient cloud-based systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Engineer

Business Analyst

A Business Analyst is responsible for analyzing business needs and developing solutions to meet those needs. They work with stakeholders to gather requirements, and to design and implement solutions that improve business processes. This course can be useful for aspiring Business Analysts as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Business Analysts can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to achieve their business goals.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. They work to identify trends and patterns, and to provide insights that can help organizations make better decisions. This course can be useful for aspiring Data Analysts as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Data Analysts can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to make better use of their data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Project Manager

A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They work with stakeholders to define project scope, develop project plans, and track project progress. This course may be useful for aspiring Project Managers as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Project Managers can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to deliver projects on time and within budget.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Software Developer

A Software Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing software applications. They work with users to gather requirements, and to design and implement solutions that meet those requirements. This course may be useful for aspiring Software Developers as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Software Developers can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to deliver high-quality software products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Quality Assurance Analyst

A Quality Assurance Analyst is responsible for testing software applications and identifying defects. They work with developers to fix defects and to ensure that software applications meet quality standards. This course may be useful for aspiring Quality Assurance Analysts as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Quality Assurance Analysts can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to deliver high-quality software products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Database Administrator

A Database Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining databases. They ensure that databases are running smoothly and that data is secure. This course may be useful for aspiring Database Administrators as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Database Administrators can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to maintain reliable and secure databases.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Cybersecurity Analyst

A Cybersecurity Analyst is responsible for identifying and mitigating security risks. They work to protect organizations from cyber attacks and data breaches. This course may be useful for aspiring Cybersecurity Analysts as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Cybersecurity Analysts can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to maintain a secure IT environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Technical Writer

A Technical Writer is responsible for creating and maintaining technical documentation. They work with engineers and other technical experts to gather information and to write documentation that is clear, concise, and accurate. This course may be useful for aspiring Technical Writers as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Technical Writers can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to create high-quality technical documentation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Systems Engineer

A Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer systems. They work with users to gather requirements, and to design and implement solutions that meet those requirements. This course may be useful for aspiring Systems Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in Windows PowerShell, which is a powerful scripting language that can be used to automate tasks and manage complex systems. By learning how to use PowerShell effectively, Systems Engineers can improve their efficiency and productivity, and help their organizations to maintain reliable and efficient computer systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer