Install PowerShell on Linux or OS X - A Step-by-Step Guide

This image illustrates the download location and package types available.

Installing PowerShell on Linux Systems

Once the necessary package has been downloaded, open a terminal window within your Linux environment. The subsequent step involves installing both the package’s dependencies and the package itself.

For installations on Ubuntu 16.04, execute these commands:

• sudo apt-get install libunwind8 libicu55
• sudo dpkg -i /path/to/powershell.deb

Consider the scenario where the package, named "powershell_6.0.0-alpha.9-1ubuntu1.16.04.1_amd64.deb", was saved to the Downloads directory within your home folder. The commands would then be:

• sudo apt-get install libunwind8 libicu55
• sudo dpkg -i ~/Downloads/powershell_6.0.0-alpha.9-1ubuntu1.16.04.1_amd64.deb

To expedite the process, leverage tab completion functionality. For instance, typing "~/Downloads/powershell" followed by the Tab key will automatically complete the filename if it’s the sole file beginning with "powershell" in that directory.

Visual Confirmation

Users of Ubuntu 14.04 should utilize the following commands:

• sudo apt-get install libunwind8 libicu52
• sudo dpkg -i /path/to/powershell.deb

For CentOS 7 systems, the installation process is as follows:

• sudo yum install /path/to/powershell.rpm

Upon successful completion of these steps, PowerShell should be fully installed and operational on your Linux system.

Installing PowerShell on macOS

The process of installing PowerShell on a Mac is straightforward. Simply initiate the installation by double-clicking the downloaded .pkg file.

This action will launch the package installer, proceeding with the installation of PowerShell in a manner consistent with other applications.

Bypassing Gatekeeper

Currently, the installation package is not digitally signed. Consequently, users must circumvent Gatekeeper security protocols to complete the installation.

To bypass Gatekeeper, right-click (or Ctrl-click) the .pkg file and select "Open". You will then be prompted to confirm that you wish to run the installer.

Confirming this action will allow the installation to proceed.

Initiating PowerShell on Linux and macOS

PowerShell can be readily launched on both Linux and macOS operating systems. This allows users to leverage its capabilities across different platforms.

Accessing a PowerShell shell environment is achieved by simply executing the "powershell" command within a terminal. This method is consistent regardless of whether you are using a Linux or macOS system.

Upon successful execution, a PowerShell prompt will appear, denoted by the "PS" prefix. From this point, you can utilize PowerShell cmdlets in the same manner as you would within a Windows environment.

To terminate the PowerShell session, simply type "exit" and press the Enter key. Alternatively, closing the terminal window will also achieve the same result.

Further comprehensive details regarding PowerShell are available on the project’s official GitHub page. This resource provides access to the source code, issue reporting mechanisms, and extensive official documentation.

Resources for Further Exploration

• Source code and issue tracking can be found on the PowerShell GitHub repository.
• Detailed documentation is also accessible through the official GitHub page.

The GitHub page serves as a central hub for developers and users seeking in-depth information about PowerShell.