Turn on PowerShell in Server 2008

 

PowerShell v1 is included with Windows Server 2008 as a feature/optional component and it is turned off by default. To use it you have to add it using Server Manager, which available as: MMC console and a command line utility.

Here is how to turn it on, only one line of code, using the ServerManagerCmd.exe command-line tool. BTW, ServerManagerCmd also has a parameter -whatIf, I wonder where did it came from :)

-i Is a shortcut for -install
-w is for -whatIf

 

When the installation process ends, PowerShell's shortcuts are available under the Start menu:

 

Launch PowerShell (no need to reboot) and you're ready to go, don't forget to change the execution policy if you need to execute scripts.

 

 

More Info:

• Server Manager Technical Overview Appendix - References for Server Manager command line XML answer file schema and command-line syntax, examples, options, and parameters.
  
• Server Manager Technical Overview - Review a summary of Server Manager, including benefits and key tasks.
  
• TechNet Webcast: Overview of Server Manager and Windows PowerShell in Windows Server 2008 (Level 300) - Discover the new features Server Manager provides in Windows Server 2008. Learn how Server Manager enables you to install, configure, and manage Windows Server 2008 server roles and optional components.
  
• Server Manager Compared to Earlier Windows Management Tools - Compare new features and functionality in Server Manager with earlier Windows management tools, including Manage Your Server, Configure Your Server, and Add or Remove Windows Components.