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How to Fix PowerShell Autocomplete Not Working in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

PowerShell autocomplete is a handy feature that saves time by suggesting commands and parameters as you type. When it stops working, it can slow down your workflow significantly. Fortunately, fixing this issue in Windows 11 is usually straightforward.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to get PowerShell autocomplete working again. Each step is explained in basic terms, so even beginners can follow along easily.

By the end, you’ll be able to use autocomplete smoothly and improve your PowerShell experience. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into fixes.

These troubleshooting methods progress from easy to advanced, ensuring you try the simplest options first.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before applying any fixes, here are some quick things to verify:

  • PowerShell Version: Autocomplete works best on PowerShell 5.1 or PowerShell 7+. You can check your version by typing $PSVersionTable.PSVersion.
  • Window Focus: Ensure your PowerShell window is active and selected. Sometimes autocomplete doesn’t trigger if the window isn’t focused.
  • Keyboard Functionality: Make sure your keyboard’s Tab key is working properly, as it triggers autocomplete.
  • Execution Policy: Some strict policies can block autocomplete scripts. Check by running Get-ExecutionPolicy.

Step 1: Restart PowerShell and Your Computer

Often, temporary glitches stop autocomplete from working. Restarting PowerShell can clear these minor issues.

  1. Close the PowerShell window completely.
  2. Reopen it by searching for “PowerShell” in the Start menu and clicking the app.
  3. Try typing a command and pressing Tab to see if autocomplete works.
  4. If not, restart your computer to clear any lingering system issues that might affect PowerShell.

Restarting refreshes system processes and can solve many simple problems.

Step 2: Check PowerShell Profile for Errors

Your PowerShell profile is a script that runs every time you start PowerShell. Errors here can break autocomplete.

  1. Open PowerShell.
  2. Type notepad $PROFILE and press Enter. This opens your profile script in Notepad.
  3. Look for any unusual or incomplete commands that might cause errors.
  4. If unsure, you can temporarily rename the profile file by running Rename-Item $PROFILE "$PROFILE.bak". This disables the profile.
  5. Close and reopen PowerShell, then test autocomplete again.

If autocomplete works after disabling the profile, you know the issue is inside your profile script. You can fix or rebuild it carefully.

Step 3: Update PowerShell to the Latest Version

Older versions of PowerShell may have bugs or missing features affecting autocomplete. Updating ensures you have the latest fixes.

  1. Visit the official PowerShell GitHub page: PowerShell Releases.
  2. Download the latest stable version suitable for Windows 11 (usually PowerShell 7.x).
  3. Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions.
  4. After installation, open the new PowerShell and test autocomplete.

Using the latest version also brings performance improvements and new features.

Step 4: Enable Tab Completion Explicitly

In some PowerShell environments, tab completion may be disabled by default. You can enable it manually.

  1. Open PowerShell.
  2. Run this command to enable tab completion:
Set-PSReadlineKeyHandler -Key Tab -Function Complete

This command binds the Tab key to the autocomplete function explicitly.

To make this change permanent, add the above line to your PowerShell profile by typing notepad $PROFILE and pasting the command at the end of the file.

Step 5: Reinstall or Reset PSReadLine Module

PowerShell uses the PSReadLine module to handle command-line editing and autocomplete features. Sometimes this module can become corrupted.

  1. Open PowerShell as Administrator.
  2. Uninstall the PSReadLine module by running:
Remove-Module PSReadLine
  1. Then reinstall or update it by running:
Install-Module PSReadLine -Force
  1. Restart PowerShell and test autocomplete again.

Reinstalling PSReadLine refreshes autocomplete functionality and fixes module-related issues.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If the above steps didn’t work, consider these additional options:

  • Run PowerShell as Administrator: Sometimes permissions affect autocomplete. Right-click PowerShell and select “Run as administrator.”
  • Use Windows Terminal: Windows Terminal is a modern terminal app that supports PowerShell and improves command-line features.
  • Reset PowerShell Settings: Delete or rename the PowerShell settings folder at %USERPROFILE%AppDataRoamingMicrosoftWindowsPowerShell to reset configurations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is PowerShell autocomplete not working after an update?

Sometimes updates change settings or modules that affect autocomplete. Reinstalling PSReadLine or resetting your profile usually resolves this.

Can I customize autocomplete behavior in PowerShell?

Yes, using the PSReadLine module, you can customize key bindings and autocomplete options to suit your preferences.

Is autocomplete available in PowerShell ISE?

PowerShell ISE has basic autocomplete, but it’s less powerful than the console or Windows Terminal with PSReadLine enabled.

Does Windows Terminal improve autocomplete?

Yes, Windows Terminal provides a better interface and supports modern features like improved autocomplete through PowerShell 7 and PSReadLine.

How do I check if autocomplete is enabled?

Try typing a partial command and pressing the Tab key. If suggestions appear, autocomplete is working.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and autocomplete still doesn’t work, here are some final options:

  • Visit the official Microsoft PowerShell documentation and support forums for specific issues: Microsoft PowerShell Docs.
  • Consider resetting Windows Terminal or reinstalling PowerShell completely.
  • Check for Windows updates, as system compatibility can affect PowerShell features.
  • Reach out to communities like Stack Overflow or the PowerShell subreddit for help.

Conclusion

PowerShell autocomplete not working in Windows 11 can be frustrating but is often easy to fix. Start with simple steps like restarting PowerShell and your PC, then check your profile for errors. Updating PowerShell and ensuring the PSReadLine module is working properly usually resolves the issue.

Remember to enable autocomplete explicitly if needed and explore alternative terminals like Windows Terminal for a better experience. If all else fails, official documentation and community forums are valuable resources.

With these step-by-step solutions, you can restore autocomplete functionality and enjoy a faster, smoother PowerShell workflow.

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