How to convert a PowerShell Script into an EXE Shortcut

Written by Horatiu Vladasel · November 3rd, 2023 · 2min read

In software development and system administration, automation is crucial. Consider this: you want a PowerShell script to run every time an application starts.

Linking the script to the application's shortcut is one way, but there's a smoother solution – converting the PowerShell script into a standalone executable using PS2EXE.

PS2EXE transforms PowerShell scripts into standalone executables. This means the script works independently and looks professional.

How? PS2EXE encapsulates the script inside an executable. When this EXE runs, it upacks the script for execution. It's a win-win situation: users get a simple experience, and developers know their scripts run reliably.

In software packaging, it's rare but useful to run specific commands before launching the main app, often by converting a PowerShell script to an EXE shortcut.

In this article, we'll explore the process of converting PowerShell scripts to standalone EXEs using PS2EXE and seamlessly integrating them into software packages with Advanced Installer.

Converting PowerShell script to EXE

To start converting PowerShell script to EXE, get the PS2EXE tool. It's available online in various versions.

Or, use a PowerShell with admin rights and type:

Install-Module ps2exe

Then open the GUI:

win-ps2exe
Win-PS2EXE graphical interface

After refining your PowerShell script, run PS2EXE and input your PowerShell script. It will create the standalone EXE.

PowerShell to EXE conversion through PS2EXE

That was easy right?

Now if we open up the EXE file resulted, we can see that the PowerShell script works:

Run AppFinder Exe

Using the EXE in your Package

Considering that the resulted EXE is your application's shortcut, adding it into your package with Advanced Installer is straightforward.

1. Go to the Files and Folders page and drag the EXE.

Files and Folders page

2. Right-click the executable and select New Shortcut To > Installed File.

3. A new window will pop-up. Complete the prompted details, and you're set.

Add AppFinder EXE to your package

And that is it, that is how easily you can convert a PowerShell script to an executable and use it in your package.

New to Advanced Installer? Streamline your software packaging with Advanced Installer's 30-day free trial!

Conclusion

Streamlining user experience and ensuring script reliability are essential in software development.

With tools like PS2EXE and Advanced Installer, you can achieve both effortlessly, showcasing the power of effective automation in modern software practices.

Happy converting!

Written by
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Horatiu Vladasel

Horatiu is a Software Packager/Sequencer with over 10 years experience, who has worked as a Software Packager at IBM and is currently offering software packaging services to companies such as BT or Nationwide.

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