Installing modules (Install-Module) in PowerShell

Introduction

Modules add new commands to PowerShell. Installing modules lets you use extra tools easily.

You want to add new commands to automate tasks.

You need to use a specific feature not built into PowerShell.

You want to share your scripts with others using common modules.

You want to update or install the latest version of a tool.

You are setting up a new computer and need required modules.

Syntax

PowerShell

Install-Module -Name <ModuleName> [-Scope <Scope>] [-Force] [-AllowClobber]

-Name is the module name you want to install.

-Scope can be CurrentUser (just you) or AllUsers (everyone on the PC).

Examples

Installs the PowerShellGet module for the current user by default.

PowerShell

Install-Module -Name PowerShellGet

Installs the Pester module only for the current user.

PowerShell

Install-Module -Name Pester -Scope CurrentUser

Installs or updates the Az module, forcing overwrite if needed.

PowerShell

Install-Module -Name Az -Force -AllowClobber

Sample Program

This script installs the PSReadLine module for the current user and confirms the installation.

PowerShell

Install-Module -Name PSReadLine -Scope CurrentUser -Force
Write-Output "Module PSReadLine installed successfully."

Important Notes

You may need to run PowerShell as Administrator to install modules for all users.

If you get a prompt about an untrusted repository, type 'Y' to continue.

Use Get-InstalledModule to see what modules are installed.

Summary

Install-Module adds new commands by downloading modules.

Use -Scope to control who can use the module.

Use -Force to overwrite existing modules if needed.