5 Ways to Run Executables (EXE) Files From PowerShell
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Method 1: Using .\ (Dot Slash)
To run an executable file (EXE) located in your PowerShell working directory, use the .\ (dot slash) prefix. This tells PowerShell to execute the file from the present folder rather than searching for it within the directories in your system’s PATH environment variable.
Step 1:PressWindows+Son your keyboard, typePowerShell, and clickRun as Administrator. SelectYeswhen prompted.
Step 2:Navigate to theEXElocation. Use thecdcommand to go to the folder containing your EXE file. For instance:
Step 3:Now, run the EXE. Type.\followed by the name of the EXE file and pressEnter. Example:
Step 4:If facing problems locating EXE files, use theGet-ChildItemcommand. Here’s how to use it:
Also Read:How to fix unable to run EXE files on Windows 11
Method 2: Using Call Operator (&)
The call operator (&) offers a straightforward way to execute EXE files directly from the PowerShell prompt. This method is ideal for quick and simple execution and doesn’t require complex control over the launch process.
Step 1:Launch the Run box by pressingWindows+Ron your keyboard. TypePowerShellin the search box and clickOK.
Step 2:To run PowerShell as an administrator, type the command below and hitEnter. Additionally, clickYeswhen prompted.
Step 4:In the new Administrator PowerShell window, type&operator followed by the full path to the EXE file and hitEnter.
Step 5:If your EXE file requires command-line arguments, add them after the file path. Here’s how to do so:
Note:The argument /p in the image below will print the EXE file whose path has been specified later.
Also Read:How to run PowerShell as administrator in Windows 11
Method 3: Via the Invoke-Expression Cmdlet
The Invoke-Expression cmdlet in PowerShell offers a way to execute strings dynamically as if they were direct commands. This enables you to run EXE files by providing the full path to the executable. This method can save your life when you need to build the command string for the executable at runtime.
Step 1:Click theWindowsicon, typePowerShellin the search box, and selectRun as Administrator. When a pop-up appears, chooseYes.
Step 2:Write the command below to run an EXE file and hitEnteron your keyboard.
Step 3:If you want to add arguments while launching the EXE file, enter the below arguments and pressEnter.
If you’re dealing with a complicated script involving different paths and arguments, create a variable for these paths and arguments. Later, you can use this variable to simplify the process. Follow the steps below to do so:
Step 1:Set the exe path by typing the below commands and hittingEnter.
Step 2:Write the commands below and pressEnterto run an executable (EXE) with arguments.
Step 3:Lastly, write the code below to run an executable file and hitEnter.
Method 4: Using CMD /C
PowerShell’s CMD /C command essentially creates a temporary instance of the classic Command Prompt (cmd.exe) to execute a specified command. Here’s how to do so:
Step 1:Click theStartbutton, writePowerShell, and click Run as Administrator. SelectYesto allow the app to make changes to your device.
Step 2:Type the command below to make a cmd instance in your PowerShell window and hitEnter.
Step 3:To run arguments, type the code below and press theEnterkey.
Method 5: Using Start-Process Cmdlet
The Start-Process cmdlet offers significant control over the execution process. You should use it to specify command-line arguments, adjust the working directory, redirect output, or launch a process with elevated permissions (administrator rights) using certain parameters.
Step 1:PressWindows+Son your keyboard, writePowerShell, and clickRun as Administrator. In the pop-up window, selectYes.
Step 2:Write the command below and hitEnterto open an EXE app using Start-Process.
Step 3:To open a specific EXE file, type the following command and pressEnteron your keyboard.
Step 4:You can also run arguments while passing the parameters. Write the below command to do so and hitEnter.
Here are some of the most useful parameters for customizing how Start-Process works:
FAQs
- Are there any security risks involved in running EXEs from PowerShell?
Yes, running EXEs from PowerShell carries significant security risks. The EXE could be malicious, grant attackers unauthorized access, run harmful code, or steal data.
- How can I handle errors if the EXE execution fails?
Use PowerShell’s try…catch blocks to capture potential errors during EXE execution. This allows you to log the failure or take corrective actions.
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Last updated on 23 August, 2024
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