InstallModule

InstallModule is a term used for commands that install software modules from a repository. The most widely known implementation is in PowerShell, where the Install-Module cmdlet installs modules from the PowerShell Gallery, handling dependencies and metadata.

Install-Module is part of the PowerShellGet module. When run, it connects to the configured repository (by default PSGallery), retrieves the module package and any dependencies, and places them in the module path on the host. Using -Scope CurrentUser installs to the user profile; -Scope AllUsers installs system-wide and typically requires elevated privileges.

Requirements and behavior: an active internet connection and a compatible PowerShellGet version; the command may prompt to install the NuGet provider or to trust the repository if needed. You can specify -Repository to use a different source.

Common usage: Install-Module -Name ModuleName; you can constrain versions with -RequiredVersion, -MinimumVersion, or -MaximumVersion. Additional options include -Force to suppress prompts and -AllowClobber to permit overwriting existing commands. You can set -Credential or -Proxy for restricted environments.

Security and maintenance: install modules from trusted sources; verify publishers; keep modules up to date with Update-Module; use Get-Module to inspect installed versions.

Related concepts: PSModulePath, PowerShell Gallery, NuGet provider, Update-Module, Remove-Module.