The average Windows user probably doesn't need to use PowerShell, but it's nice to know what it is if you do need it.

The Windows PowerShell console (powershell.exe) includes all the command functionality available from the Windows command prompt (cmd.exe). This means you can run commands such as dir, ping and netsh ...

You might think that Windows PowerShell and PowerShell are the same thing, but there are some important differences. Here's what you need to know.

Windows PowerShell introduces the concept of a cmdlet (pronounced “command-let”), a simple, single-function command-line tool built into the shell.

Microsoft removes the version still included for compatibility for good. It has long been considered obsolete.

I recommend Windows PowerShell 2.0 Administrator’s Pocket Consultant for anyone who wants, or needs, to understand the language. It is published by Microsoft Press under ISBN 978-0-7356-2595-2.