Course Outline

Module 1: Creating Advanced Functions

In this module students will learn how to parameterize a command into an advanced function. It is designed to teach several key principles in a single logical sequence, by using frequent hands-on exercises to reinforce new skills.

• Converting a Command into an Advanced Function
• Creating a Script Module
• Defining Parameter Attributes and Input Validation
• Writing Functions that use Multiple Objects
• Writing Functions that Accept Pipeline Input
• Producing Complex Function Output
• Documenting Functions by using Content-Based Help
• Supporting -Whatif and -Confirm

Module 2: Using Cmdlets and Microsoft .NET Framework in Windows PowerShell

In this module, you will learn how to discover and run Windows PowerShell commands, and how to use .NET Framework components from inside Windows PowerShell. These two techniques will provide you with the most flexibility and capability for accomplishing tasks in a production environment.

• Running Windows PowerShell Commands
• Using Microsoft .NET Framework in Windows PowerShell

Module 3: Writing Controller Scripts

In this module, students will learn how to combine tools – advanced functions that perform a specific task – and a controller script that provides a user interface or automates a business process.

• Understanding Controller Scripts
• Writing Controller Scripts that Show a User Interface
• Writing Controller Scripts That Produce Reports

Module 4: Handling Script Errors

In this module, students will learn how to perform basic error handling in scripts. The focus will be about how to add error handling to existing tools, primarily as a time-saving mechanism (instead of having students write new tools).

• Understanding Error Handling
• Handling Errors in a Script

Module 5: Using XML Data Files

In this module, students will learn how to read, manipulate, and write data in XML files. XML files provide a robust, yet straightforward way to store both flat and hierarchical data. XML files are more flexible than CSV, more accessible for small amounts of data than SQL Server, and easier to code against that Excel automation.

• Reading, Manipulating and Writing Data in XML

Module 6: Managing Server Configurations by Using Desired State Configuration

In this module, students will learn how to write Desired State Configuration (DSC) configuration files, deploy those files to servers, and monitor servers’ configurations.

• Understanding Desired State Configuration
• Creating and Deploying a DSC Configuration

Module 7: Analyzing and Debugging Scripts

In this module, students will learn how to use native Windows PowerShell features to analyze and debug existing scripts. These skills are also useful when students have to debug their own scripts.

• Debugging in Windows PowerShell
• Analyzing and Debugging and Existing Script

Module 8: Understanding Windows PowerShell Workflow

In this module, students will learn about the features of the Windows PowerShell Workflow technology.

• Understanding Windows PowerShell Workflow

After completing this course, students will be able to:

• Create Advanced Functions
• Use Cmdlets and Microsoft .NET Framework in Windows PowerShell
• Write Controller Scripts
• Handle Script Errors
• Use XML Data Files
• Manage Server Configurations by Using Desired State Configuration
• Analyze and Debugging Scripts
• Understand Windows PowerShell Workflow