14 DAY TRIAL // The latest Windows 10 insider build brings a change that puts the Windows PowerShell in the spotlight, as it replaces the super-popular Command Prompt in some essential parts of the operating system.
Command Prompt has been around for as long as we can remember, but starting with Windows 10 build 14971, Microsoft is trying to make PowerShell the main command shell in the operating system.
As a result, PowerShell officially replaces the Command Prompt in the Win + X menu, so when you right-click the Start menu, you’ll only be allowed to launch the more powerful app. Additionally, in File Explorer’s File menu and in the context menu that appears when pressing Shift + right-click in any folder, the old Command Prompt will no longer be available.
Typing cmd in the run dialog will launch PowerShell as well, so Microsoft has made a significant step towards phasing out the traditional Command Prompt.
You can still stick with Command Prompt… for now
For the moment, the company still gives users the possibility of sticking with Command Prompt, but it’s not yet clear for how long, as Microsoft is expected to get rid of it completely at some point in the future.
“For those who prefer to use Command Prompt, you can opt out of the WIN + X change by opening Settings > Personalization > Taskbar, and turning ‘Replace Command Prompt with Windows PowerShell in the menu when I right-click the Start button or press Windows key+X’ to Off,” Dona Sarkar, head of the Windows Insider program, said.
Seeing the Command Prompt go is not at all a surprise, especially because PowerShell is an evolved version that provides more advanced functionality aligning with Microsoft’s efforts in Windows 10.
The Windows PowerShell celebrates its 10th anniversary this week, so this is the perfect moment for Microsoft to start the transition, but it remains to be seen how users in the community will receive it.
UPDATE, December 9: A Microsoft spokesperson has contacted us to emphasize that the company is not discontinuing Cmd Prompt, but only replacing the default shell. The full statement is available below:
“Microsoft is not removing Cmd from Windows, but rather changing the default shell, launched via File Explorer and the [Win] + [X] power-user menu, from CMD to PowerShell. Users can opt to change the default shell back to Cmd via Settings and can continue to launch whichever shell they prefer, be it CMD, PowerShell, or Bash (if enabled) via the Start menu. The Windows Cmd shell has a long heritage and is an essential tool used by millions of businesses, users, and developers every day. It remains an integral part of Windows.”