pwshguy

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• Primer: Using Exchange Online PowerShell in Azure Automation Runbooks
  In this primer, we cover how to create and execute Azure Automation Exchange Online runbooks (scripts) using cmdlets from the Exchange Online management module. Some setup is necessary before runbooks can process Exchange cmdlets, but once the necessary resources and permissions are in place, it’s all plain sailing.
• Custom Maester Tests: Validate Full Addresses Now and Cleaned Up Wording
  Added 3 new tests which I think the first two will be game changers. The first 2 are tests for validating locations, in which the user must have street, city, state, postal code, country, business phone, and company name the same as the valid location in the json.
• 02-14-2025 MSOnline and AzureAD PowerShell modules.. One last Valentine’s day card each
  If you haven’t seen the news already, MSOnline and AzureAD PowerShell modules will be no longer supported after March 30, 2025. So looks like this will be our last year to give them a Valentine’s day card for all the times they’ve been there for us in!
• Cline vs. Roo Code – Which VS Code extension is better for the AI-augmented IT pro?
  In a prior article, I showcased automating PowerShell management in natural language using the VS Code extension Cline. Roo Code (formerly Roo Cline) is a Cline fork that provides extra valuable features for the AI-enhanced IT pro. Roo Code remains comparable, and the insights I shared about working with MCP servers in Cline also apply to Roo Code. The main difference is that Roo Code serves system administrators more effectively, as it provides a mode more suitable for natural language use in a CLI. Additionally, Roo Code's support of VS Code's Code Actions feature makes it perfect for understanding and modifying a colleague's scripts.
• Using the PowerShell WinGet Client module to install your apps on your new computer
  Installing all your (management) apps on a new system always takes too much time. In this blog post, I will show you how to use PowerShell and the WinGet Client module to install them quickly.
• Not the Error I expected! Connect-NsxtServer
  Howdy! It’s been quite a while since I created a blog post. Not sure I would want to say exactly how long. However, today I had a brand new VM that I was using to write some automation with PowerShell/PowerCLI. It took me a few minutes to figure this one out. Maybe it was me?
• DPRK hackers dupe targets into typing PowerShell commands as admin
  North Korean state actor 'Kimsuky' (aka 'Emerald Sleet' or 'Velvet Chollima') has been observed using a new tactic inspired from the now widespread ClickFix campaigns.
• Behind the PowerShell Pipeline
  Welcome to Behind the PowerShell Pipeline a subscription-based newsletter that will dive deeply into the world of PowerShell.

Projects, Scripts, and Modules

• PowerShell-OpenAuthenticode
  Cross platform PowerShell implementation of Authenticode signing and verification.

Books, Media, and Learning Resources

• Building a Pokedex - ChatGPT vs. Gemini vs. DeepSeek vs. Claude
  Which model can build the best PowerShell Pokédex? ChatGPT vs. Gemini vs. DeepSeek vs. Claude - you will be as surprised as I was!

Community

• Building Secure PowerShell Solutions with Jake Hildreth
  In this episode of the PowerShell Podcast, we welcome back security-focused PowerShell expert Jake Hildreth for an insightful conversation about PowerShell, security tools, and his continued journey in the PowerShell community. Jake shares updates on Locksmith v2, his work with PowerPUG, and his experience learning new PowerShell techniques to refine and improve his tools.

Events

• PowerShell + DevOps Global Summit 2025
  April 7-10, 2025 Bellevue, WA

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.

Announcements!

• Microsoft Entra PowerShell module now generally available
  Manage and automate Microsoft Entra resources programmatically with the scenario-focused Microsoft Entra PowerShell module.

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• Automating Code Compliance: AI-Driven Code Style Enforcement for Pull Requests
  As teams increasingly rely on automation for code quality and compliance, ensuring consistent coding standards can be challenging during the pull request (PR) process. In this article, we explore how to build an AI-powered style enforcement pipeline using modern tools like GPT-4 and CI/CD workflows.
• PowerShell: How to find empty Attributes
  We are often looking for attributes, but what about the empty attributes? How can I find out if an attribute is empty? That is the focus of this article.
• Now you can use your own company standards with Maester custom tests
  I thought checking to see if they were filled in or even formatted correctly wasn’t enough.. now you can config the validation.json file in the Validating folder with your company standards to make only those values pass. Here are the fields so far, and will be adding more!
• Get All Teams Channels With External Members
  Channels in Microsoft Teams are the heartbeat of collaboration, designated to help teams organize conversations, files, and tasks around specific topics or projects. However, they also come with challenges—especially when external members are involved.
• Microsoft Entra PowerShell modules
  The new Microsoft Entra PowerShell modules are available, replacing the deprecated AzureAD modules. This blog post will highlight the installation, changes, and features.
• New Microsoft script updates Windows media with bootkit malware fixes
  Microsoft has released a PowerShell script to help Windows users and admins update bootable media so it utilizes the new "Windows UEFI CA 2023" certificate before the mitigations of the BlackLotus UEFI bootkit are enforced later this year.

Books, Media, and Learning Resources

• Monthly Update #116 for Office 365 for IT Pros
  Monthly update #116 (February 2025) is available for the Office 365 for IT Pros eBook. The refresh includes update #8 new files for the Automating Microsoft 365 with PowerShell eBook. We’ve also updated the print (paperback) version that’s sold on an on-demand basis through Amazon.com. Things keep on changing inside Microsoft 365 with agent management a new challenge that’s coming into view.
• Behind the PowerShell Pipeline
  Discover parts of PowerShell that lie under the surface that can make you a better PowerShell user and scripter. From one of the original PowerShell experts.

Community

• Exploring the Power of IoT and PowerShell with Mark Go
  In this episode of the PowerShell Podcast, we sit down with Mark Go, a PowerShell enthusiast and innovator, to discuss his exciting journey from the Navy to becoming a tech-savvy system administrator. Mark shares his experiences using PowerShell to make his work life better.

Events

• PowerShell + DevOps Global Summit 2025
  April 7-10, 2025 Bellevue, WA

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.

Announcements!

• PowerShell v7.5.0
  The official v7.5 is out now!

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• Build a Scalable PowerShell Pester Testing Framework
  Learn how to create a maintainable and organized Pester testing framework for PowerShell that scales with your needs. Perfect for large test suites.
• If Maester couldn’t get any better…Custom Test Collection now available
  The time has finally come. I have created a public repository to store custom Maester tests for everyone. As well as a website for deeper understanding where needed.
• Identifying Privileged Applications and Their Secret Passwords
  Securing applications in an Entra tenant is crucial, especially after recent attacks like Midnight Blizzard. This article reviews how to use PowerShell to help identify privileged applications, their permissions, as well as client Secrets.
• Practical Graph: Finding and Removing Underused Microsoft 365 Copilot Licenses from User Accounts
  Microsoft 365 Copilot licensing costs a lot of money. At $360 annually, it's important to make sure that everyone with a license makes full use of Copilot to become more productive and efficient. Usage data is available in the Graph, and some PowerShell can reveal who's using Copilot and who's not. With that data, you can decide whether to remove licenses for reassignment to other users.
• Exploring PowerShell Reflective Loading in Lumma Stealer
  One of the most common techniques I’ve seen used by threat actors to deliver Lumma Stealer payloads to victims is Reflective Loading, leveraging the .NET library. Reflective Loading is a technique…
• 10 Master PowerShell Troubleshooting Commands: Simplify System Diagnostics
  Discover 10 essential PowerShell troubleshooting commands. Learn what each command does, how to use them effectively for system diagnostics.

Projects, Scripts, and Modules

• Get-MacInfo
  This is a powershell module for PS on macOS that, as much as possible, replicates "Get-ComputerInfo".

Community

• Streamlining PowerShell Package Management with Fred Weinmann
  In this episode of the #PowerShell Podcast, we continue our deep dive with Fred Weinmann, a Microsoftie and PowerShell legend, as he shares more insights and tools that redefine productivity for PowerShell enthusiasts. Picking up where we left off in the last episode, Fred takes us through his journey of mastering PowerShell, collaborating with the community, and optimizing workflows with powerful custom modules.
• Inside IT Automation | E19
  Jakub Jares talks about PowerShell testing with Pester and more

Events

• PowerShell + DevOps Global Summit 2025
  April 7-10, 2025 Bellevue, WA

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.

I really appreciate your understanding for the missed edition last week. To make up for it, this week’s issue is packed with even more tips, insights, and updates to level up your PowerShell skills.

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• Final Days for the MSOnline and AzureAD PowerShell Modules
  After many twists and turns since August 2021, the MSOnline module retirement will happen in April 2025. The AzureAD module will then retire in the 3rd quarter. It's way past time to upgrade PowerShell scripts. The question is whether to use the Entra module or the Microsoft Graph PowerShell SDK. I know which option is best and say why in this article.
• PowerShell: How to execute PowerShell Scripts (*.ps1) on Remote Computers
  PowerShell scripts can be executed locally or remotely. In this article I will show how scripts can be executed remotely.
• Update to Entra FIDO Key Attestation Database
  What other keys are you looking to gain compatibility?
• VS Code extension Cline: AI-automated scripting and CLI administration – A PowerShell example
  In a previous post about the new AI features in the Warp terminal, I suggested that AI interfaces would eventually replace the CLI and facilitate the automation of script generation. The Cline extension for Visual Studio Code is a significant step in this direction, allowing you to create scripts using natural language, execute them with AI support in the terminal, rely on AI to analyze shell output and respond to errors. While the extension supports various shells, I'll demonstrate how to utilize Cline to automate PowerShell administration.
• Harnessing AI in PowerShell: Create a multi-model command-line AI assistant (Part 1)
  AI is virtually inescapable these days. From annoying website chat bots to the assimilation of the Microsoft product portfolio by Copilot, AI has been busy spreading its tentacles every which way it can. I must be honest – I’ve never been a fan of it. That is, until I started using GitHub Copilot.
• Find Groups with Disabled Users in Microsoft 365
  Offboarding users in Microsoft 365 involves more than just blocking sign-ins; there’s a hidden complication that many overlook. Disabled accounts tied to groups hinder group management by inflating group sizes, making it harder to track active members and maintain compliance with access policies.
• Fixing Windows 11 24H2 – No Internet Access Issue using PowerShell and Intune Remediation
  There are articles and forum posts from people who upgraded to Windows 11 24H2 and are experiencing Wi-Fi issues. In this blog post, I will show you an Intune Remediation script that might fix the problem for your devices.
• Powershell - Testing network connectivity and port accessibility
  Testing network connectivity and port accessibility with Powershell
• List all directory objects owned by a user in Entra with PowerShell
  Learn how to use Microsoft Graph PowerShell to list all directory objects, such as apps and groups a user owns in Microsoft Entra.
• PowerShell based Terraform Bootstrap Script
  Create a PowerShell script to bootstrap Terraform, handle installation, create project directories, and automate deployments across Windows, Mac, and Linux.
• Terminal profiles in IDEs
  I spend a significant part of my work day in a terminal. That's why I have it configured to suit my needs with a collection of several useful modules which I occasionally still extend. Although all IDEs I regularly use feature an integrated terminal which opens in repository root by default, I rarely used them because they didn't match my configuration. So I decided to check if there was a way to make them use my default PowerShell profile.

Continued in the comments...

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.

Announcements!

• Pester v5.7.0
  Pester 5.7.0 is out, it adds new code coverage format Cobertura, and other fixes

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• PowerShell Pester 101: A Practical Guide for Beginners
  Learn how to validate your PowerShell scripts with Pester testing. This hands-on guide shows you how to write tests that ensure your code works as intended.
• Automated Provisioning of Windows 365 Cloud PCs: Advanced Scripts
  We decided that we would create some more advanced scripts for admins, which would include some error handling, prompts for input, and more. You will be able to use these scripts to provision your Entra ID joined Cloud PCs for various scenarios, be it using a Microsoft Hosted network or an Azure Network Connection, Enterprise or Frontline builds, or choosing your Cloud PC image, language, or region etc.
• Using PowerShell to make bulk changes to DotNet .csproj files
  When working on a big DotNet team, it’s easy to create a library but forget to set a configuration property according to your team’s standards. Most people don’t spend a lot of time looking at their…

Projects, Scripts, and Modules

• All About the Office 365 for IT Pros GitHub Repository
  The Office365ITPros GitHub repository holds over 300 PowerShell scripts showing how to interact with Microsoft 365 and Entra ID. Anyone can contribute to Office365ITPros by forking the code to a copy of the repository and making changes to scripts there. If you want, you can push the changes back to us so that we can consider their inclusion in Office365ITPros. It's a great example of community in action.
• JsonFS
  Mount a Json file as PowerShell file system. Contribute to wgross/json-fs development by creating an account on GitHub.
• Icewolf.EXO.SpamAnalyze v2.0.14
  This is a Powershell Module that simplifies the Message Trace in Exchange Online (EXO).

Books, Media, and Learning Resources

• A PowerShell Teaser
  Somewhat ironically, since finishing our long series on Bash scripting I’ve been almost exclusively writing scripts in a completely different language, PowerShell! Being a Microsoft language you’d be forgiven for assuming that means I’ve moved to Windows and started trying to automate things there, but you’d be mistaken, I’m still very much a Mac user! So what gives? Despite what its origins may suggest, the core PowerShell environment is both open source and cross-platform, running just fine on the Mac and Linux as well as Windows.
• PowerShell in Azure: Adding Tags & Setting Location Restrictions
  In this tutorial, learn how to create and apply tags to Azure resources and enforce a location restriction policy using PowerShell. Effective resource tagging helps you organise and manage your Azure environment, while location restriction policies ensure compliance with regional regulations.
• Run Data Access Governance reports with PowerShell
  How to run Data Access Governance reports for SharePoint Advanced Management in PowerShell

Community

• Exploring PnP PowerShell Updates with MVP Gautam Sheth
  In this episode of the PowerShell Podcast, we’re joined by Gautam Sheth, Microsoft MVP and M365 developer extraordinaire, to explore the latest improvements to the PnP PowerShell module and how to get started with it. Gautam shares his unique perspective on automating SharePoint, working with Microsoft 365, and leveraging Microsoft Graph through PowerShell. We discuss practical use cases, best practices, and the significance of PnP PowerShell for modern IT and development workflows. From SharePoint tips to automation strategies, this episode is packed with insights for PowerShell enthusiasts and M365 developers alike. Whether you're just starting or looking for advanced techniques, Gautam provides actionable advice and plenty of inspiration!

Fun

• A little PowerShell humor
  I think we can all agree

Events

• PowerShell + DevOps Global Summit 2025
  April 7-10, 2025 Bellevue, WA

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• Automated Deployment of a Zero Trust Azure Automation Environment
  A common and recommended security practice is only allowing access to an Azure Storage Account via a whitelisted IP address. While this is generally a good idea, a problem arises when you need an Azure Automation Account to access one of these Storage Accounts.
• PowerShell Reusable Sessions: A Guide to Persistent Remote Connections
  Learn how to leverage PowerShell reusable sessions to maintain persistent connections with remote systems. This tutorial shows you how to create, manage and effectively use PowerShell sessions for remote administration.
• PowerShell 7.5 new features
  Microsoft has unveiled the first release candidate of PowerShell 7.5, with the General Availability (GA) launch expected in January or February 2025. This release candidate provides the most accurate preview of the upcoming final production version of PowerShell 7.5. This new version includes hundreds of changes, ranging from minor adjustments to major new features. In the following sections, we will discuss the key changes in this major PowerShell update.
• PowerShell Pipeline Parameters: How to Create Pipeline-Ready Functions
  Learn how to enable pipeline input in your custom PowerShell functions using parameter binding. This tutorial shows you how to use ValueFromPipeline and ValueFromPipelineByPropertyName to create functions that work seamlessly with the PowerShell pipeline.
• Validate list of Email Addresses using PowerShell
  What if you have an extensive list of email addresses? And if you must validate them for syntax and check if there's an email server for that domain? PowerShell is your friend :) In this blog post, I will show you how to import, validate, and export the results of those email addresses.
• Automatically update PowerShell 7.4 with WSUS or SCCM
  Microsoft enabled automatic updates for PowerShell with the release of PowerShell 7.2; that continues now with PowerShell 7.4.
• Quickly Finding Previously Typed Commands With PowerShell
  How to find that extremely convoluted command you typed in three months ago that you can't find in your PowerShell history.

Projects, Scripts, and Modules

• EntraFIDOFinder v0.0.14 is Out with New Features!
  It’s the second to last Monday of the year, so figured I’d release a new version of the EntraFIDOFinder before the end of the year. Here are the main additions. New Features: I did some other cleanup and prepping for some future updates, but what do you think? Any other features we should add? Are […]
• Powershell - Testing name resolution (equivalent to nslookup)
  Powershell commands to test name resolution (equivalent to nslookup)

Community

• Holiday Special with Gilbert Sanchez: PSScriptAnalyzer, AST, and PowerShell Gifts
  In this special holiday episode of the PowerShell Podcast, we are joined by the incredibly talented Gilbert Sanchez. We dive into the world of PSScriptAnalyzer and use it as a gateway to explore and understand the Abstract Syntax Tree (AST) in PowerShell. Gilbert walks us through a live demo and highlights some powerful ways to leverage the AST to analyze and improve our PowerShell code. As a special holiday treat, Gilbert comes bearing gifts—several awesome PowerShell modules that listeners can start using today.
• Evgenij Smirnov Talks Certs, Security, and PowerShell Adventures
  In this episode of the PowerShell Podcast, we sit down with Microsoft MVP Evgenij Smirnov to explore his incredible journey from working as a forklift driver to becoming a PowerShell and security expert. We dive into his insights on certificates, security best practices, and the importance of identity in modern IT. Evgenij also shares his experiences with cross-platform PowerShell, highlights from his recent talks, and the value of community events like PowerShell Saturday. Along the way, we discuss his unique career path, his passion for the PowerShell community, and tips for those looking to grow in IT.

Fun

• 2024 Overview
  It’s 2025, so it’s time to reflect on 2024 :). In this blog post, I will highlight all the great PowerShell things that happened during the year.

Events

• PowerShell + DevOps Global Summit 2025
  April 7-10, 2025 Bellevue, WA

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.

This is the final edition of PowerShell Weekly for 2024. Since this newsletter is hand-curated, I always take the last week of the year off to rest and reflect. I’ll return in the New Year with fresh content and my annual year-in-review, covering all the major PowerShell highlights from 2024.

Announcements!

• Announcing a free GitHub Copilot for VS Code
  We're excited to announce an all new free plan for GitHub Copilot, available for everyone today in VS Code. All you need is a GitHub account. No trial. No subscription. No credit card required.

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• Processing Microsoft 365 Retention Labels with the Microsoft Graph PowerShell SDK
  Two types of retention labels are in use: Microsoft 365 retention labels and MRM retention tags. Clients hide the difference, but the Microsoft Graph PowerShell SDK cmdlets can only process Microsoft 365 retention labels for files stored in SharePoint Online and OneDrive for Business. EWS can manage MRM retention tags, but it's on a fast path to retirement in 2026.
• Complete Guide to Automate the Microsoft Intune Daily Tasks using of Graph X Ray
  This guide will help you to automate your Intune daily task with using Graph X Ray. This article will teach us how to use effectvly use Graph X-Ray to automate the Microsoft Intune Tasks.
• How to Use PowerShell Get-Date Cmdlet?
  In this tutorial, I will explain how to use the PowerShell Get-Date cmdlet to work with dates and times in your scripts. The Get-Date cmdlet allows you to retrieve the current date and time, format dates, and perform date calculations. As a system administrator or a developer, you should know how to use Get-Date
• Practical Graph: Understanding What Happens When the Connect-MgGraph Cmdlet Runs
  This article describes what happens when the Connect-MgGraph cmdlet runs in interactive and app-only sessions with the Microsoft Graph PowerShell SDK. A session is created and a context is established, and it's possible to use the session context to do real work.
• Try to Catch PowerShell Error Handling
  A guide to handling errors within PowerShell and the best approach

Projects, Scripts, and Modules

• PowerShell-Hunter
  PowerShell tools to help defenders hunt smarter, hunt harder.

Books, Media, and Learning Resources

• PowerShell Universal Christmas Edition - Adam Driscoll & Constantin Hager
  In this lecture, Adam Driscoll and Constantin Hager guide the audience through the PowerShell Universal Christmas edition, demonstrating the latest features and functionalities of version 5.1. The session is organized into two main demos, focusing on practical applications of PowerShell and how attendees can utilize these updates in their own projects. The first half of the presentation features Constantin who shares his user management application, utilizing the Request API to query and display user data in a seamless table format.

Community

• Miriam Wiesner on Identity Hygiene, Security Tools, and Finding Balance
  In this episode of the PowerShell Podcast, we sit down with Miriam Wiesner, a Senior Security Research Program Manager at Microsoft, to dive into the fascinating world of security and identity hygiene. Miriam shares her expertise on the GraphAPI and the critical importance of maintaining proper identity hygiene in today's digital landscape.

Events

• PowerShell + DevOps Global Summit 2025
  April 7-10, 2025 Bellevue, WA

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• Install and integrate Microsoft AI Shell with a PowerShell module
  Microsoft’s new AI Shell integrates AI into command-line workflows, featuring the Azure OpenAI Agent and Copilot in Azure Agent for tasks like PowerShell scripting and cloud automation. You can install AI Shell (aish.exe) as a standalone app or PowerShell module to streamline coding, error resolution, and resource management on Windows, macOS, or Linux.
• Jingle All the Way to Savings: Automate Azure Bastion with Azure Automation!
  In my blog post contribution for this year’s Festive Tech Calendar, I’ll show you how to reduce Azure costs by automating the runtime of your Azure Bastion host(s) with Azure Automation.
• Setting Up VS Code for PowerShell Development: A Beginner’s Guide
  Learn how to set up Visual Studio Code (VS Code) for PowerShell development in this step-by-step guide. You'll learn how to install VS Code, configure the PowerShell extension, set up the integrated terminal, and explore key features to enhance your PowerShell scripting experience.
• How to Rename Multiple Files Using PowerShell?
  Recently, I got a requirement to rename numerous report files in a project. PowerShell script is the best option for it. In this tutorial, I will explain how to rename multiple files using PowerShell. Rename Multiple Files Using PowerShell Recently, I was working on a project for a client in New York City.
• PowerShell Function for the cmd.ms website
  I'm a big fan of the cmd.ms website because it has all the links to quickly jump to a specific blade in a portal instead of clicking multiple parts of a Microsoft Management portal to get there. In this blog post, I will show you how to use a PowerShell function to open one or multiple management websites from the command line.
• Prevent users from switching and migrating to new Outlook using PowerShell and Microsoft Intune
  Prevent future automatic migration to the new Outlook. In this post, I’ll share the PowerShell script I’m using to prevent users from migrating to the new Outlook if your environment isn’t quite ready for it.
• It's always DNS
  A story of when it was actually DNS.

Projects, Scripts, and Modules

• Checking to see if I've missed any episodes of the PowerShell podcast
  For the code to select and open a PowerShell podcast episode webpage with PowerShell

Books, Media, and Learning Resources

• Windows PowerShell Use Cases in 1 Hour
  In this video, dive into essential PowerShell use cases, including file management, system administration, and basic networking. Learn how to manage files, perform essential administrative tasks, and execute networking commands for tasks like testing up connections, all through PowerShell scripts. This tutorial is perfect for beginners aiming to improve their IT skills and handle various everyday tasks with PowerShell efficiently.
• PowerShell Collaboration Unleashed! [OC]
  Learn how to use JupyterHub to create shared environments for seamless scripting & collaboration—accessible from any browser.

Community

• PowerShell Evolution with Sean Wheeler: What's new in PS 7.5, AIShell, & More!
  In this episode of the PowerShell Podcast, we welcome back Sean Wheeler, Lead Documentarian at Microsoft for PowerShell, to catch up on the latest developments in the PowerShell ecosystem. Sean dives into the updates with PSResourceGet, the powerful enhancements in PowerShell 7.5, and the groundbreaking potential of the AI Shell project, designed to transform command-line experiences with artificial intelligence. We also get a recap of Sean’s experience at SpiceWorld, highlighting community insights and key takeaways from the event. Packed with expert tips and exciting news, this episode is a must-listen for PowerShell enthusiasts and IT pros alike!

Fun

• Feeling lucky?
  Would you like to play a game?

Events

• Turn PowerShell Into Your Excel Automation Machine
  Friday, December 13, 2024 - Join Doug Finke, the creator behind the PowerShell ImportExcel module (downloaded over 8 million times), for an exclusive dive into Excel automation. Learn from the creator himself and discover how to turn tedious Excel tasks into seamless PowerShell solutions, gaining insider insights directly from the source.
• PowerShell Conference Europe 2025 Call for Speakers
  Call closed on 15 Dec 2024

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.

Hey c/PowerShell community!

I’m excited to announce the launch of my new YouTube series, PowerShell Collaboration Unleashed!.

In the first part, we dive into The Littlest JupyterHub— an awesome tool for creating shared environments on a single server. These environments are accessible from any web browser, allowing you to create, run, and share scripts effortlessly.

Here’s what you’ll learn in the first part of the series:

• An intro to JupyterHub and why it’s a game-changer for collaboration.
• How to provision an Ubuntu server for The Littlest JupyterHub.
• Installing and configuring The Littlest JupyterHub and support for dotnet and PowerShell.
• Setting up shared environments you can start using right away.

Future videos will cover topics like setting up SSH, adding AzureAD/Entra ID authentication, connecting to external resources, securing secrets, logging, and integration with source control.

If you’re passionate about scripting, automation, or simply improving team collaboration, this series is for you!

I would love to hear your thoughts, feedback, questions, or ideas for future topics in this series.

Announcements!

• PowerShell VSCode Extension v2024.5.2-preview
  New PowerShell VSCode extension preview release v2024.5.1! This includes the breakpoint performance improvement I developed, you should see stepping through code work much faster. Please try to break this feature before release!

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• PowerShell: How to configure a custom PSSessionconfiguration
  A remote session can be set up with the help of PSSession. The predefined remote session is used by default. However, we can also create our own session configurations and then connect
• Install and manage VM watch on Azure Virtual Machines
  Microsoft announced the public preview of VM watch, a new in-VM service designed for Azure Virtual Machines (VMs) and Virtual Machine Scale Sets (VMSS). This service aims to enhance VM health monitoring by offering standardized, lightweight, and flexible in-VM health checks that connect seamlessly with Azure's monitoring and AIOps systems.
• How to Create a PowerShell Module: A Beginner’s Guide
  PowerShell modules are essential for scriptwriters and system administrators to organize and reuse their code. A module is a package of related functions, cmdlets, and resources bundled together for easy sharing and deployment. Creating a custom PowerShell module allows you to centralize functionality, streamline code reuse, and distribute your work to others.
• How To Check If File Modified In Last 24 Hours Using PowerShell?
  One of my team members recently wanted to check if a file has been modified in the last 24 hours. I suggest using PowerShell as it provides different methods to check. In this tutorial, I will explain how to check if a file has been modified in the last 24 hours using PowerShell with examples.
• How to compare all files in two folders using PowerShell
  When I am investigating or troubleshooting any issue, I always hope to have access to any log, source control, build artifacts, and pipelines. However, some scenarios are not related to software development where the only resources that I have immediate access to are folders and the files contained, and also the same ones but
• How to Replace Carriage Returns in Strings Using PowerShell?
  There will be times when you want to replace carriage returns in strings using PowerShell. In this tutorial, we will learn how to replace carriage returns in strings using PowerShell. To replace a string containing a carriage return in PowerShell, use the -replace operator with the carriage return escape sequence `r. For example, $string -replace “r”, “replacement text”will replace

Projects, Scripts, and Modules

• v0.0.13 EntraFIDOFinder is out
  New Version of EntraFIDOFinder is out and i’ve added a better way to find out which version of FIDO they are using too. I’ve updated it for the PowerShell version and the webversion. Enhancements I did notice that there is a difference for AAGUID 30b5035e-d297-4ff7-b00b-addc96ba6a98 where on Microsofts website it says it should be compatible
• PSAppDeployToolkit 4.0.2
  The all-new and vastly improved PSAppDeployToolkit v4 is here!

Community

• Turning the tables. An interview with Andrew Pla
  In this episode, we turn the tables and interview Andrew Pla. We explore Andrew's back story, find out how he got started in IT, and discover where his love of PowerShell comes from. We also discuss his journey from community member to advocate to PowerShell MVP. Get to know Andrew Pla!
• OnRamp Scholarship Application Now Open
  Are you an entry-level IT professional looking for an immersive introduction to PowerShell, DevOps, and the broader tech community? The OnRamp program at the PowerShell + DevOps Global Summit is designed just for you, and scholarship applications are now open!
• BlueSky PowerShell Community Starter Pack
  PowerShell and automation enthusiasts who love to share what they know - through code, content, teaching, or lending a hand to others. They strive to make tech accessible to everyone and support each person's learning path with enthusiasm and respect.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
• Inside IT Automation E18
  Joe Houghes talks about VMware, PowerCLI, PowerShell and more

Events

• Turn PowerShell Into Your Excel Automation Machine
  Friday, December 13, 2024 - Join Doug Finke, the creator behind the PowerShell ImportExcel module (downloaded over 8 million times), for an exclusive dive into Excel automation. Learn from the creator himself and discover how to turn tedious Excel tasks into seamless PowerShell solutions, gaining insider insights directly from the source.
• PowerShell Conference Europe 2025 Call for Speakers
  Call closed on 15 Dec 2024

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• PowerShell Automatic Variables: Special Variables Built into PowerShell
  Learn about PowerShell's automatic variables - built-in special variables that serve specific purposes. Discover how to work with history limits, constants, exit codes, and null values.
• Install and manage VM watch on Azure Virtual Machines
  Microsoft announced the public preview of VM watch, a new in-VM service designed for Azure Virtual Machines (VMs) and Virtual Machine Scale Sets (VMSS). This service aims to enhance VM health monitoring by offering standardized, lightweight, and flexible in-VM health checks that connect seamlessly with Azure's monitoring and AIOps systems.
• How to Verify a File Hash (Checksum) on Windows
  Checking a downloaded file’s hash (checksum) allows verifying its integrity and ensuring that the file contents have not been modified. Administrators commonly use MD5/SHA256 checksum verification for downloaded OS distros…
• Use PowerShell to check if (shortened) URL link is safe
  It just happens a lot: you receive a (shortened) URL and are unsure if it's safe to open. Sometimes, I open it in Windows Sandbox or use the urlscan.io website. In this blog post, I will show you how you can automate the check of a URL and see if it's safe or not :)
• Activating PIM Roles that require MFA or Conditional Access Authentication Context with PowerShell
  For some time, I’ve been activating and scheduling activations for Azure roles under Privileged Identity Management (PIM) using the Microsoft Graph PowerShell SDK. However recently we secured these role activations to require a conditional access authentication context with MFA. This basically requires me to MFA when I activate a role with PIM. Problem is, by … Continue reading Activating PIM Roles that require MFA or Conditional Access Authentication Context with PowerShell →
• Loading PowerShell Custom Functions: Profiles, Dot-Sourcing, and Modules
  PowerShell is a versatile scripting environment that allows users to extend its capabilities by creating custom functions. Once written, you can load these PowerShell custom functions into your session or environment for reuse. Here are four common methods to load custom functions in PowerShell.

Projects, Scripts, and Modules

• get-xkcdpassword v 0.0.4
  A PowerShell module for generating memorable XKCD-style passwords.

Community

• Jordan Returns: A Fun Dive into Life, PowerShell, and Beyond
  In this special episode, we catch up with our former cohost, Jordan, and hear about his journey since leaving the PowerShell Podcast. Jordan shares an exciting life update, offers invaluable advice on how PowerShell has shaped his career and participates in our fun "This or That" segment.

Fun

• Realtime BlueSky, but only the emoji video
  Made with PowerShell and the bluesky websocket

Events

• Turn PowerShell Into Your Excel Automation Machine
  Friday, December 13, 2024 - Join Doug Finke, the creator behind the PowerShell ImportExcel module (downloaded over 8 million times), for an exclusive dive into Excel automation. Learn from the creator himself and discover how to turn tedious Excel tasks into seamless PowerShell solutions, gaining insider insights directly from the source.
• PowerShell Conference Europe 2025 Call for Speakers
  Call closed on 15 Dec 2024

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.

Announcements!

• PowerShell 7.5 RC-1 is now available
  Come and get the latest RC release!
• Announcing the Public Preview of AI Shell
  We are pleased to announce the public preview of AI Shell.

Blogs, Articles, and Posts

• How to Query REST APIs with PowerShell: A Practical Guide
  Learn how to use PowerShell to query REST APIs, parse JSON responses, and build a reusable tool for working with web services. This hands-on tutorial covers Invoke-RestMethod, error handling, and creating custom output objects.
• GitHub Actions and PowerShell: The Underdog
  Remember how I mentioned how GitHub actions are underrated? I’m going to show at a high level how GitHub Actions with PowerShell can save you time and be more efficient. What does it do? It does that automatically once every day, I could do it more, but didn’t think it was necessary.
• PowerShell Copy-Item with Folder Structure
  In this tutorial, I will explain how to use PowerShell’s Copy-Item cmdlet to copy files and folders while maintaining their original structure. This is a common task for system administrators and developers who need to manage file systems efficiently. You will learn here how to use the PowerShell Copy-Item cmdlet to efficiently copy files
• Using the Fluent Theme in WPF with PowerShell and .Net 9
  For a long time, adding a modern design theme to your WPF project typically meant adding a 3rd party library to provide the styling, such as MahApps Metro, or WPF UI. With the release of .Net 9, a Fluent theme is finally coming to WPF! There are still areas where 3rd party libraries will be … Continue reading Using the Fluent Theme in WPF with PowerShell and .Net 9
• Conditional Access Gallery - Point, Select, and Deploy in Minutes
  With my new Conditional Access Gallery tool Invoke-DCConditionalAccessGallery in DCToolbox you can pick and choose from any of 25+ available Conditional Access templates included, and the tool will auto-deploy them in your tenant (report-only mode), automatically create all dependencies like groups, named locations, and terms of use agreements, and finally document your new policy design
• Upgrading your Azure Function Apps to run on PowerShell 7.4
  PowerShell language worker for Azure Functions. Contribute to Azure/azure-functions-powershell-worker development by creating an account on GitHub.

Projects, Scripts, and Modules

• PowerHuntShares
  PowerHuntShares is an audit script designed in inventory, analyze, and report excessive privileges configured on Active Directory domains.

Books, Media, and Learning Resources

• PwshSpecteConsole with Shaun Lawrie
  Shaun Lawrie talks to the Pacific Powershell User Group about PwshSpectreConsole.
• GitHub Pages with PowerShell
  The Pacific Powershell User Group talks about GitHub Pages and PowerShell and demonstrates PSJekyll.
• Get-EventSession
  Script to assist in downloading Microsoft Ignite, Inspire, Build or MEC contents or return session information for easier digesting.

Community

• Growth, Grit, and Community with Steven Judd & Kevin Laux
  In this episode of the PowerShell Podcast, we sit down with Steven Judd and Kevin Laux for insights and inspiration from the PowerShell community. Steven shares his experiences overcoming the hurdles of live demos, recounts the highlights of PowerShell Saturday NC, and reveals the story behind his iconic bling and love for puns. He delves into the importance of "practice makes progress," encouraging listeners to embrace growth through consistent effort. Kevin Laux joins the conversation to discuss his journey with PowerShell, his role with the Research Triangle PowerShell User Group (RTPSUG), and the impact of community involvement.

Fun

• First Snowfall of the Season
  First snowfall in NY! Tell me about the first time PowerShell just clicked… what was that moment?

Check out psweekly.dowst.dev for all past editions as well as a searchable archive.