Windows Command Line & PowerShell Foundations

Introduction Working effectively with Windows systems from a security or administration perspective requires a solid understanding of the available command-line interfaces. Unlike graphical tools, command-line environments expose the operating system in a direct and scriptable way, allowing fine‑grained control over system behavior, configuration, and automation. Windows ships with two primary command-line interfaces: Command Prompt (cmd.exe) and PowerShell. While both provide access to the underlying operating system, they differ significantly in design philosophy, capabilities, and use cases. Understanding when and how to use each one is a foundational skill for system administrators, blue team operators, and penetration testers alike. ...

December 23, 2025 · 6 min