Get Variable - PowerShell

Overview

Get-Variable is a PowerShell command used to retrieve variables from the current scope, a specific scope, or a provider. It provides detailed information about each variable, including its name, value, type, and other properties.

Syntax

Get-Variable [-Name] <string[]> [-Value] <object[]> [-Force] [-Include] <string[]> [-Exclude] <string[]> [-OutVariable] <string> [-ErrorAction] <ActionPreference> [-ErrorVariable] <string>

Options/Flags

  • -Name (alias -n): Filter the results to include only variables with the specified names. Accepts wildcard characters (* and ?).

  • -Value (alias -v): Filter the results to include only variables with the specified values. Supports equality checks and wildcard matching.

  • -Force (alias -f): Forces the command to return all variables, even if they are hidden.

  • -Include (alias -inc): Includes variables with the specified names or patterns. Takes precedence over -Exclude.

  • -Exclude (alias -exc): Excludes variables with the specified names or patterns.

  • -OutVariable (alias -ov): Stores the results in the specified variable.

  • -ErrorAction (alias -ea): Specifies the action to take when an error occurs.

  • -ErrorVariable (alias -ev): Stores the error message in the specified variable.

Examples

Example 1: Getting all variables:

Get-Variable

Example 2: Filtering variables by name:

Get-Variable -Name "MyVar*"

Example 3: Getting variables with specific values:

Get-Variable -Value 100

Example 4: Excluding hidden variables:

Get-Variable -Force -Exclude Hidden:*

Common Issues

  • Variable not found: Ensure the variable name is spelled correctly and exists in the current scope.

  • Access denied: If you are trying to access variables from a different scope, ensure you have sufficient permissions.

Integration

Get-Variable can be used in combination with other commands, such as:

  • Set-Variable: To modify variable values.
  • New-Variable: To create new variables.
  • Remove-Variable: To delete variables.
  • Set-Variable
  • New-Variable
  • Remove-Variable
  • Invoke-Variable