How to Check PowerShell Version in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

PowerShell is one of the most powerful tools built into Windows. Whether you’re managing system settings, running scripts, or automating administrative tasks, knowing which version of PowerShell you’re using can make a big difference.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to check PowerShell version in Windows 11 using different methods — from the built-in terminal commands to the PowerShell ISE and even registry checks.

By the end, you’ll know exactly what version of PowerShell is running on your computer, why it matters, and how to update it if needed.

What Is PowerShell in Windows 11?

PowerShell is Microsoft’s advanced command-line shell and scripting environment. It combines the simplicity of the Command Prompt with the flexibility of programming — letting you automate tasks, manage configurations, and control Windows at a deep level.

It’s built on the .NET framework, and in newer versions, on .NET Core (for PowerShell 7+).

Windows 11 includes Windows PowerShell 5.1 by default, but you can install PowerShell 7 (PowerShell Core) separately for advanced capabilities.

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2. Why It’s Important to Know Your PowerShell Version

Checking your PowerShell version is crucial for several reasons:

• 🧩 Script compatibility: Some scripts only work with specific PowerShell versions.

• ⚙️ Feature access: New versions add features like cross-platform support or new cmdlets.

• 🔒 Security updates: Keeping PowerShell updated ensures you have the latest patches.

• 🧠 Troubleshooting: When following online guides, you’ll need to match your PowerShell version to theirs.

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3. PowerShell Versions: A Quick Overview

Here’s a simple overview of major PowerShell versions and what changed:

So depending on your setup, you could be using PowerShell 5.1 or PowerShell 7.x.

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4. How to Check PowerShell Version in Windows 11 (Quick Answer)

If you just need the quick command:

This one-liner tells you your current PowerShell version.

Example output:

That means you’re running PowerShell 7.4.0.

Now, let’s break down all the methods in detail. 👇

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5. Method 1: Check PowerShell Version Using $PSVersionTable

This is the most common and accurate way to check your PowerShell version.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + S and type PowerShell.

2. Open Windows PowerShell or PowerShell 7.

3. Type:

   $PSVersionTable


4. Press Enter.

Output Example:

✅ Tip: The “PSVersion” value tells you your exact version.

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6. Method 2: Check PowerShell Version with Get-Host Command

Another quick and simple method is using the Get-Host cmdlet.

Steps:

1. Open PowerShell.

2. Type:

   Get-Host


3. Press Enter.

Output Example:

The Version line shows your PowerShell version (in this case, 5.1).

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7. Method 3: Using the Get-Command Method

You can also use the Get-Command cmdlet to verify version information indirectly.

Command:

This retrieves the PowerShell executable version installed on your system.

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8. Method 4: Check PowerShell Version via Command Prompt (CMD)

If you’re using Command Prompt, you can still check your PowerShell version.

Steps:

1. Open Command Prompt (Windows + R → type cmd).

2. Type the following command:

   powershell -command "$PSVersionTable.PSVersion"


3. Press Enter.

You’ll see the same output as if you ran it directly in PowerShell.

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9. Method 5: Check PowerShell Version via Windows Terminal

Windows 11 comes with Windows Terminal, which can run PowerShell, Command Prompt, and other shells side by side.

Steps:

1. Open Windows Terminal (right-click Start → Terminal).

2. Select the PowerShell tab.

3. Run:

   $PSVersionTable.PSVersion


4. The terminal will display your version instantly.

✅ This method works whether you’re running PowerShell 5.1 or PowerShell 7.

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10. Method 6: Check PowerShell Version in PowerShell ISE

PowerShell ISE (Integrated Scripting Environment) is a graphical tool for writing and testing scripts.

Steps:

1. Search for Windows PowerShell ISE and open it.

2. In the console pane, type:

   $PSVersionTable


3. Hit F5 or press Enter.

You’ll see the version info displayed in the output window.

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11. Method 7: Check PowerShell Version in the Registry

If PowerShell won’t launch or you’re diagnosing issues, you can check its version via the Windows Registry.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

2. Navigate to:

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\PowerShell\3\PowerShellEngine


3. Look for the PowerShellVersion key on the right panel.

That’s your installed version number.

⚠️ Caution: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system problems. Only view values unless you know what you’re doing.

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12. Difference Between Windows PowerShell and PowerShell Core

💡 Tip: You can have both versions installed — they don’t conflict.

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13. How to Update PowerShell to the Latest Version

If you’re using an older version, upgrading brings new cmdlets, performance boosts, and better cross-platform compatibility.

Method 1: Use Microsoft Store

1. Open the Microsoft Store.

2. Search for PowerShell.

3. Click Get or Install.

Method 2: Install via Winget

Run this command in PowerShell:

Method 3: Manual Download

Go to the official PowerShell GitHub Releases page and download the latest .msi installer.

After installation, type:

to verify the update.

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14. Common PowerShell Version Issues (and Fixes)

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15. How to Find Out If PowerShell Is 32-bit or 64-bit

Some scripts or modules work only in specific architectures.

Steps:

1. Run:

   [Environment]::Is64BitProcess


2. Output:

   • True = 64-bit PowerShell

   • False = 32-bit PowerShell

You can also check your PowerShell path:

• 64-bit: C:\Program Files\PowerShell\7\

• 32-bit: C:\Program Files (x86)\PowerShell\7\

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16. Conclusion

Now you know how to check PowerShell version in Windows 11 using multiple methods — from $PSVersionTable to registry lookups and command-line shortcuts.

Understanding which version you’re running helps you:

• Use compatible scripts

• Access modern features

• Keep your system secure

Whether you stick with Windows PowerShell 5.1 or upgrade to PowerShell 7, you’re now equipped to manage your system confidently.

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17. FAQs

1. How do I check PowerShell version quickly?

Run $PSVersionTable.PSVersion in PowerShell — it displays your version instantly.

2. What is the default PowerShell version in Windows 11?

Windows 11 ships with Windows PowerShell 5.1 by default.

3. Can I have both PowerShell 5.1 and 7 installed?

Yes. They run side by side without issues.

4. Is PowerShell 7 better than 5.1?

Yes — it’s faster, cross-platform, and built on .NET Core with more cmdlets.

5. How do I update to the latest PowerShell version?

Install from the Microsoft Store, Winget, or GitHub Releases page.

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18. Summary & Key Takeaways

Key takeaway:
To check your PowerShell version in Windows 11, simply run $PSVersionTable.PSVersion. If you’re still on version 5.1, consider upgrading to PowerShell 7 for better performance, new features, and cross-platform support.