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Tom Meservy

Have you been wanting to learn Windows PowerShell? Are you ready to eliminate most monotonous tasks because you can automate numerous tasks? Are you a sys admin who wants to be even more effective at work? Welcome to the Master Microsoft PowerShell course.

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Have you been wanting to learn Windows PowerShell? Are you ready to eliminate most monotonous tasks because you can automate numerous tasks? Are you a sys admin who wants to be even more effective at work? Welcome to the Master Microsoft PowerShell course.

Learn Windows PowerShell in an Afternoon

PowerShell is Microsoft's incredibly powerful command-line shell and scripting language that has transformed the role of Sys Admin. If I were looking for just one skill to add to my sys admin toolkit, it would be PowerShell.

I’ve helped hundreds of students learn the fundamentals of PowerShell. Join me in a short course that will make a distinct difference in your career. Learn Microsoft PowerShell in an afternoon.

Learn by Doing

This PowerShell course is packed with concise illustrations to help you learn the fundamentals in a short amount of time. You are encouraged to follow along by using PowerShell and the supplied additional files so that you can know that you have learned the material. The last section of the course focuses on a substantive script that you will write to organize files on your hard drive.

Throughout the course we will cover the following topics:

  • How to install and startup PowerShell

  • Basic data types

  • Comparison operators

  • Cmdlets (its a PowerShell thing)

  • Aliases

  • Working with objects

  • Sorting

  • Filtering

  • Loops

  • Formatting output

  • Arrays & Hash Tables

  • Saving Data

  • Importing Data

  • Writing functions including passing parameters and returning results

  • Writing scripts

I'm a professional instructor who has helped thousands of students learn to use PowerShell. Come and enjoy the class as you learn this powerful tool.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • The ability to use powershell fundamentals to write functions and scripts that will save you time.
  • An opportunity to impress your colleagues and it management with your powershell skills.

Syllabus

Install and launch the latest version of PowerShell

A simple introduction to the course.

Describes how to get the latest version of PowerShell.

Read more

Describes how to launch the PowerShell console and PowerShell ISE,

PowerShell Basics - Overview

Provides some of the basics of PowerShell. You will be able to launch the console and issue some basic commands.

An introduction to some of the basic data types in PowerShell. You will be able to use integers and strings and use variables.

Introduces comparison operates such as -eq, -ne, -gt, and -lt. You will be able to make comparisons between objects.

A basic introduction to Cmdlets. You will be able to effectively use some basic cmdlets.

You will be able to find out what underlying cmdlet an alias is associated with and you will be able to create your own aliases.

Know how to get help. You will be able to explore what different commands do with the built-in and online help systems.

Working with Objects

You will gain a greater understanding of PowerShell objects and will be able to use them more effectively.

You will be able to sort lists of data.

An introduction to the Where-Object cmdlet. You will be able to effectively filter objects in lists.

You will be able to filter lists of objects using foreach loops.

You will be able to loop through lists using the foreach construct.

A simple introduction to arrays. You will be able to use arrays effectively in PowerShell.

A simple introduction to Hash Tables. You will be able to use Hash Tables to store and retrieve data.

Formatting, Saving, and Importing Data

You will be able to format data in a variety of different ways including Format-Wide, Format-List, and Format-Table.

You will be able to save output in several different formats to files on a hard drive.

You will be able to import data from CSV files in a very short amount of time.

This practice problem provides you with an opportunity to integrate everything that you have learned thus far.

Creating Functions and Scripts

You will understand the functionality of the Integrated Scripting Environment GUI.

You will be able to create functions that can have data passed to them and that return data.

You will learn additional techniques for writing functions including passing parameters, new cmdlets, and calling .NET functions.

You will be able to create scripts that have parameters passed to them.

Practice - Writing a Script to Organize Files

This is an introduction to a script practice problem that you can do to integrate all of the course ideas. You can download the script requirements in the resources.

I show you how I would define parameters for the script.

I define the Check-Folder function for the script and show how it might be called. You will be able to effectively use Switch parameters.

An overview of the Display-FolderStats function. You will be able to return complex data types from functions.

I implement the main processing of the script. You will be able to gracefully exit scripts, call functions, and aggregate data into arrays that can be easily sorted.

Completed Script
Conclusion
Congratulations

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops PowerShell skills, which are foundational in IT
Taught by Tom Meservy, who is recognized for their work in PowerShell
Covers topics that are highly relevant to sys admins
Can be completed in an afternoon, allowing learners to pick up PowerShell fundamentals quickly
Provides opportunities to practice PowerShell skills and apply them to real-world tasks
May not be suitable for complete beginners who have no coding experience

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Reviews summary

Powershell foundation

This course provides an introduction to PowerShell, including its capabilities, commands, and syntax. It covers the fundamentals of PowerShell scripting, such as variables, operators, and control flow. The course also includes exercises and a project to help learners apply their knowledge. Here are some of the key positive qualities of the course: - It provides clear and concise explanations of PowerShell concepts. - It includes plenty of examples and exercises to help learners practice what they have learned. - It covers a wide range of PowerShell topics, from the basics to more advanced concepts. - It includes a project that allows learners to apply their knowledge and create a working PowerShell script. Here are some of the things that could be improved: - Some of the videos are a bit long and could be broken up into smaller chunks. - The course could include more real-world examples of how PowerShell can be used to solve problems. - The course could include more advanced topics, such as working with Active Directory and Exchange. Overall, this is a good course for learners who want to learn the basics of PowerShell scripting. It provides a solid foundation and includes plenty of exercises and examples to help learners practice what they have learned.
This course has received largely positive feedback from learners. Many learners have found it helpful in learning the basics of PowerShell scripting.
"learners say"
The instructor provides clear and concise explanations of PowerShell concepts. This makes the course easy to follow and understand.
"It provides clear and concise explanations of PowerShell concepts."
The course includes exercises and a project to help learners apply their knowledge. This hands-on approach helps learners retain information and develop practical skills.
"The course also includes exercises and a project to help learners apply their knowledge."
This course covers the basic building blocks of PowerShell, including variables, operators, and control flow. It provides a solid foundation for more advanced topics.
"This course provides an introduction to PowerShell, including its capabilities, commands, and syntax."
"It covers the fundamentals of PowerShell scripting, such as variables, operators, and control flow."
"It includes plenty of examples and exercises to help learners practice what they have learned."
"It covers a wide range of PowerShell topics, from the basics to more advanced concepts."
Some of the videos are a bit long and could be broken up into smaller chunks. The course could include more real-world examples of how PowerShell can be used to solve problems. The course could include more advanced topics, such as working with Active Directory and Exchange.
"Some of the videos are a bit long and could be broken up into smaller chunks."
"The course could include more real-world examples of how PowerShell can be used to solve problems."
"The course could include more advanced topics, such as working with Active Directory and Exchange."

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 Master Microsoft PowerShell with these activities:
Join a PowerShell Study Group
Collaborate with peers to enhance your understanding.
Browse courses on Collaboration
Show steps
  • Find a study group or start your own
  • Meet regularly to discuss course topics
  • Share knowledge, tips, and resources
Follow PowerShell Tutorial
Deepen your knowledge by following a comprehensive PowerShell tutorial.
Browse courses on Cmdlets
Show steps
  • Find a reputable tutorial
  • Go through the tutorial step-by-step
  • Try out the examples and exercises
Practice PowerShell Commands
Reinforce your understanding of basic PowerShell commands by practicing them.
Show steps
  • Open PowerShell console
  • Run commands provided in the syllabus
  • Experiment with different commands
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Attend PowerShell User Group Meeting
Connect with other PowerShell professionals and learn from experienced users.
Browse courses on Networking
Show steps
  • Find a PowerShell User Group near you
  • Attend a meeting
  • Participate in discussions and ask questions
Attend a PowerShell Workshop
Gain hands-on experience and delve deeper into PowerShell concepts.
Browse courses on Hands-on Experience
Show steps
  • Find a PowerShell workshop
  • Attend the workshop
  • Participate in exercises and discussions
Write a PowerShell Script
Apply your PowerShell skills by creating a custom script to automate tasks.
Browse courses on Functions
Show steps
  • Identify a task to automate
  • Design the script's logic
  • Write the script
  • Test and refine the script
Create a PowerShell Module
Extend PowerShell's capabilities by creating a custom module.
Browse courses on Modules
Show steps
  • Define the module's purpose and functionality
  • Design the module's structure
  • Develop the module's cmdlets, functions, and providers
  • Test and document the module
Build a PowerShell Project
Apply your PowerShell skills to solve a real-world problem.
Browse courses on Project-Based Learning
Show steps
  • Define the project scope and objectives
  • Design and develop the solution
  • Implement the project using PowerShell
  • Test and evaluate the project

Career center

Learners who complete Master Microsoft PowerShell will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Data Analyst
Data Analysts sift through large quantities of data to extract insights that are useful to businesses. They use a variety of tools and techniques to do their jobs, including data visualization, statistics, and machine learning. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role, including how to use PowerShell to collect and analyze data, and how to create reports and visualizations that communicate your findings effectively.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators ensure that databases are running smoothly and efficiently. They also work with database users to provide support and training. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role, including how to use PowerShell to manage databases and how to troubleshoot common database problems.
IT Manager
IT Managers are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing IT systems and infrastructure. They also work with other departments to ensure that IT systems are aligned with business goals. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role, including how to use PowerShell to manage IT systems and how to troubleshoot common IT problems.
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining computer systems. They also work with users to troubleshoot system problems. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role, including how to use PowerShell to manage systems and how to troubleshoot common system problems.
Network Administrator
Network Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks. They also work with users to troubleshoot network problems. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role, including how to use PowerShell to manage networks and how to troubleshoot common network problems.
Security Analyst
Security Analysts are responsible for protecting computer networks and systems from security threats. They also work with other departments to develop and implement security policies. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this role, including how to use PowerShell to monitor security events and how to respond to security breaches.
Software Developer
Software Developers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They also work with users to gather requirements and to troubleshoot problems. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Software Developer, as it can help you develop the skills you need to use PowerShell to automate tasks and to create scripts that can be used to manage software applications.
Technical Support Specialist
Technical Support Specialists provide technical support to users of computer systems and software. They also work with other departments to resolve technical issues. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Technical Support Specialist, as it can help you develop the skills you need to use PowerShell to troubleshoot common technical problems.
Web Developer
Web Developers design, develop, and maintain websites. They also work with users to gather requirements and to troubleshoot problems. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Web Developer, as it can help you develop the skills you need to use PowerShell to automate tasks and to create scripts that can be used to manage websites.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts work with businesses to identify and solve problems. They also work with stakeholders to gather requirements and to develop solutions. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Business Analyst, as it can help you develop the skills you need to use PowerShell to automate tasks and to create scripts that can be used to analyze data.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use data to solve problems and to make predictions. They also work with other departments to develop and implement data-driven solutions. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Data Scientist, as it can help you develop the skills you need to use PowerShell to collect and analyze data, and to create reports and visualizations that communicate your findings effectively.
IT Auditor
IT Auditors evaluate the security and efficiency of IT systems and processes. They also work with management to develop and implement IT audit policies. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as an IT Auditor, as it can help you develop the skills you need to use PowerShell to audit IT systems and to identify security risks.
IT Consultant
IT Consultants provide advice and guidance to businesses on IT matters. They also work with businesses to implement IT solutions. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as an IT Consultant, as it can help you develop the skills you need to use PowerShell to assess IT needs and to develop and implement IT solutions.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, implement, and manage projects. They also work with stakeholders to gather requirements and to track progress. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Project Manager, as it can help you develop the skills you need to use PowerShell to automate tasks and to create scripts that can be used to manage projects.
Quality Assurance Analyst
Quality Assurance Analysts test and evaluate software applications to ensure that they meet quality standards. They also work with developers to identify and fix bugs. The Master Microsoft PowerShell course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Quality Assurance Analyst, as it can help you develop the skills you need to use PowerShell to automate testing tasks and to create scripts that can be used to test software applications.

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Master Microsoft PowerShell.
Mastering PowerShell comprehensive guide to using PowerShell for advanced tasks and scenarios. It covers topics such as working with the Windows registry, managing Active Directory, and scripting Exchange Server, making it an essential resource for IT professionals and system administrators.
PowerShell for Sysadmins guide to using PowerShell for system administration tasks. It covers topics such as managing Active Directory, working with the registry, and scripting Exchange Server.
Great reference for people who want to write more efficient and effective PowerShell scripts. It covers a wide range of topics, from best practices for writing cmdlets to tips for debugging scripts.
Comprehensive guide to PowerShell. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of PowerShell to advanced scripting techniques.

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