File cannot be loaded because the execution of scripts is disabled on this system error in PowerShell

When you try to run aPowershell script(PS1), you may get the following error:

File xyz.ps1 cannot be loaded because the execution of scripts is disabled on this system. Please see “get-help about_signing” for more details.At line:1 char:2

The reason for this error is the security setting on your pc that does not allow you to execute a script.  This is the so-calledExecution Policy. By default, the Execution Policy is set to Restricted. This setting means that you may not run any PS1 script. at all.

An overview of the policy levels:

Restricted: Individual cmdlets can run, but not saved Powershell scripts. This is the default setting.
AllSigned: Scripts can run, but must have a digital signature even if written on the local computer. Prompts you before running scripts from trusted publishers.
RemoteSigned: Scripts written on the local computer do not need a digital signature, but any script. downloaded from outside (email, IM, Internet) must have a signature to execute. 
Unrestricted: Any script. can run, but scripts downloaded from outside will run with a warning.

If you’re working on a desktop and just experimenting with PowerShell, the best is to set the policy-level to Unrestricted. This allows you do everything with annoying security boundaries. Just be careful not to run every script. you download from the internet :)
If you’re working in a production environment and only want to run self-written scripts, the RemoteSigned level should be loosy enough.

To change the Execution Policy to Unrestricted, type the following command in Powershell

Set-ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted

To change the Execution Policy to RemoteSigned (to run your own scripts), type the following command in Powershell

Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned

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