PowerShell, an integral component of the Windows ecosystem, is a versatile scripting environment that allows you to execute complex scripts and commands, offering granular control over various system settings and features. Whether it’s for the purpose of tailoring features, troubleshooting issues, or even automating repetitive tasks, PowerShell stands as a robust tool for the job.
However, while its capabilities are undoubtedly beneficial, there might be circumstances where you’d prefer to disable it. Disabling PowerShell can serve as a preventive measure against potential malicious scripts or commands. In certain organizational environments, it may also be a matter of compliance with corporate policies.
Whatever your motive, the good news is that there are multiple avenues to deactivate PowerShell on your Windows machine. Join us in this comprehensive risewindows guide as we delve into the various methods to help you achieve this.
How to Turn Off PowerShell on Windows 11 or 10 using Security Policy?
Use the following steps to disable PowerShell on Windows 11 or 10 through Security Policy:-
Step 1: First, open Local Security Policy.
You can do that from the taskbar on your screen. Next, click on the Start button and type Local Security Policy. Please find it in the search results.
Step 2: Open the Software Restriction Policies branch by double-clicking on it.
If there isn’t any category in the “Software Restriction Policies” section, right-click on it and go to the New Software Restriction Policies option.
The Software Restriction Policies branch will display two major categories: Security Levels and Additional Rules.
Step 3: Go to the New Hash Rule option by right-clicking on the Additional Rules.
Step 4: Open the “New Hash Rule” window, and click on the Browse button.
Step 5: Once you do the above steps, File Explorer will appear on your screen. Browse the following path:-
%SystemRoot%\system32\WindowsPowerShell\v1.0
Next, go to the powershell.exe executable file.
Step 6: Click on Open.
Step 7: Click on Apply.
Step 8: Click on OK.
Step 9: Click on the New Hash Rule option in the Additional Rules category.
Step 10: Now, as the “New Hash Rule” window option, click on browse.
Step 11: Now, as the File Explorer window shows up, browse the following:-
%SystemRoot%\SysWOW64\WindowsPowerShell\v1.0
Next, choose the powershell.exe executable file.
Step 13: Click on Apply.
Step 14: Click on OK.
Step 15: Navigate to the following path if you want to disable the PowerShell version 7 you’ve installed:-
%SystemRoot%\Program Files\PowerShell\7\pwsh.exe
Step 16: Select the Powershell.exe executable file in the File Explorer window.
Step 17: Click on the Open button.
Step 18: Press on Apply button.
Step 19: Hit on the OK button.
Step 20: Reboot your computer to apply the changes.
The 32-bit and 64-bit PowerShell will be disabled on your system after completing the above steps.
How to Disable Access to PowerShell ISE with Local Security Policy?
If you still have limited access to the command-line PowerShell tool after following the above steps, you can also cease using the PowerShell ISE interface. To completely disable access, follow these steps:-
Step 1: Open the Local Security Policy on your computer.
You can do that by going to the taskbar. On the taskbar, go to the start button, type Local Security Policy, and click on the same option in the search results.
Step 2: Expand the Software Restriction Policies branch.
Step 3: Go to the New Hash Rule option by right-clicking on Additional Rules.
Step 4: In the next window, click on the Browse option.
Step 5: File Explorer will pop up on your screen. Type the following and press Enter:-
“%SystemRoot%\system32\WindowsPowerShell\v1.0”
Select the powershell_ise.exe executable file after that.
Step 6: Click on the Open button.
Step 7: Press on Apply button.
Step 8: Hit on the OK button.
Step 9: Again, Go to the New Hash Rule option after right-clicking on the Additional Rules category.
Step 10: Once the “New Hash Rule” window opens, click on Browse.
Step 11: Now, File Explorer will pop up on your screen. Type the following and press Enter:-
“%SystemRoot%\SysWOW64\WindowsPowerShell\v1.0”
Select the powershell_ise.exe executable file after that.
Step 12: Click on the Open button.
Step 13: Press on Apply button.
Step 14: Hit on the OK button.
Step 15: Reboot your system, and the changes will apply immediately, and 32-bit and 64-bit PowerShell ISE will be disabled on your computer.
How to Turn Off PowerShell on Windows 11 or 10 using Local Group Policy Editor?
Use the following steps to disable PowerShell on Windows 11 or 10 through Local Group Policy Editor:-
Step 1: Go to the Local Group Policy Editor on your computer.
Step 2: In the left sidebar of Local Group Policy Editor, type the following:-
User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System
Step 3: Find the Don’t run specified Windows applications policy in the right side pane and double-click on it.
Step 4: Click on Enabled.
Step 5: Under the “Options” section, click on the Show button.
Step 6: Next, type the following in separate lines and click OK:-
- powershell.exe
- powershell_ise.exe
- pwsh.exe
Step 7: Click on Apply.
Step 8: Click on OK.
Step 9: Reboot your computer to apply the changes.
A message will pop up on your screen saying, “This app has been blocked by your system administrator,” whenever you run the disabled contents, i.e., PowerShell or PowerShellISE.
PowerShell & Your Windows Experience: The Final Word
PowerShell is an intrinsic part of Windows, serving as a dynamic platform to run scripts and commands, providing users with enhanced control over various aspects of the operating system. Whether it’s for customization, troubleshooting, or automation, PowerShell stands out as an invaluable resource for tech-savvy users.
Yet, there are valid circumstances where one might consider disabling this feature. By restricting access to PowerShell, users can stave off potential security threats, particularly from malicious scripts. Additionally, in certain corporate environments, deactivating PowerShell might be a mandate to maintain standardized security protocols or to simply comply with internal guidelines.
For those considering this course of action, the outlined methods in this risewindows guide offer a comprehensive walkthrough, ensuring that you can safely and efficiently disable PowerShell on your Windows 10 or 11 machine. Whether you’re leveraging the Local Security Policy, adjusting settings through the Group Policy Editor, or using other means, it’s comforting to know that you have the flexibility and control over your system’s features.
Remember, however, that tools like PowerShell, when used correctly, can significantly enhance your computing experience. It’s always worth weighing the pros and cons before disabling such features. Regardless of your decision, always prioritize the safety and optimal performance of your system.
Also Read: How to Customize or Turn Off the Desktop Selection Rectangle on Windows 11/10?
