Batch File Creation to Execute PowerShell Script with User Input

Learn the step-by-step process for creating a batch file to run a PowerShell script that takes user input for group names.
---
Disclaimer/Disclosure - Portions of this content were created using Generative AI tools, which may result in inaccuracies or misleading information in the video. Please keep this in mind before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to leave a comment. Thanks.
---
In today's tech-driven world, automating tasks can save a significant amount of time and reduce the possibility of manual errors. One way to achieve this is by learning how to create a batch file that executes a PowerShell script with user input. This post will guide you through creating a batch file that runs a PowerShell script requiring a group name as an input.

Understanding the Components

Before diving into the specifics, it's important to understand the basic concepts:

PowerShell: A scripting language and command-line shell designed for task automation and configuration management.

Batch File: A text file containing a sequence of commands for execution by the command-line interpreter.

Why Use a Batch File to Run a PowerShell Script

Normally, PowerShell scripts can be run directly from the command line. However, using a batch file can simplify the execution process, especially for users who may not be familiar with PowerShell. It also provides a layer to capture user input easily.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Creating the PowerShell Script

First, create a PowerShell script that you want to be executed. The script should be designed to accept a parameter for a group name. For instance:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Step 2: Writing the Batch File

Next, you'll create a batch file that will prompt the user for a group name and then call the PowerShell script with that input. Here's an example:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Breakdown of the Batch File

@echo off: This command ensures commands are not displayed in the command prompt window, only the output.

set /p GroupName="Enter the group name: ": Prompts the user to enter the group name and stores the input in a variable called GroupName.

pause: Keeps the command prompt window open, allowing users to see the output before exiting.

Step 3: Testing the Setup

Conclusion

By creating a batch file to run a PowerShell script with user inputs, you simplify the script execution process, allowing less technical users to leverage scripting for automation tasks. With batch files, including user inputs becomes straightforward, making scripts more flexible and adaptable to varying user needs. Running a PowerShell script through a batch file can bring the best of both worlds — the power of PowerShell and the simplicity of batch commands.

This approach can be applied to various tasks that require input parameters, streamlining processes, and facilitating smoother operations for both technical and non-technical personnel.