Why does PowerShell not run Angular commands?

Understanding PowerShell execution policies

PowerShell isn't strict, it's just careful. It has execution policies designed to restrict running unfamiliar scripts.

# For the current policy details
Get-ExecutionPolicy    # "Psst! What's the rule again?"

# To modify it for the current user
Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned -Scope CurrentUser   # "Ok, let's loosen up a bit."
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This change allows your locally-written scripts and globally installed modules (like Angular CLI) to be executed.

Let's talk about Node.js versions

Working with multiple Node.js versions can get tricky. Thankfully, Node Version Manager (nvm) makes it less daunting.

nvm install node  # "Knock, knock! Node.js delivery!"
nvm use node  # "Presenting...Node.js, the star!"
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Don't forget to use a Node.js version that ticks all the right boxes of Angular's requirements.

What to do when ng.ps1 plays hard to get?

Sometimes ng becomes a diva and throws an ng.ps1 error. PowerShell may be trying to run a script it doesn't trust. Here's how to coax ng into performing:

1. Open your npm global scripts folder (found in user directory under AppData\Roaming\npm)
2. Delete ng.ps1 # "Sorry, ng.ps1. It's not you, it's me."
3. Clear your npm cache:

npm cache clean --force   # "Time for some spring cleaning!"
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When PowerShell remains uncooperative

At times, PowerShell may continue to resist the Angular CLI commands. In such cases, Windows Command Prompt (cmd) can act as a saving grace since it lacks PowerShell's preventive security model.

Run your Angular commands without any roadblocks in cmd. Once you're back on track, install Angular's environment just to be safe:

npm install -g @angular/cli  # "Just dotting the 'i's and crossing the 't's."
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Deeper troubleshooting solutions

If the issue persists, here are few more Advanced Fixes:

Updating npm on Windows

Old is not always gold, especially when it's npm. Hire this upgrade utility to do the job:

npm install --global --production npm-windows-upgrade   # "npm needs a makeover!"
npm-windows-upgrade   # "Time for the new look!"
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Reinstall Node.js

Sometimes, starting fresh is the best solution. Uninstall Node.js, then reinstall from the Node.js Installation Guide in the references.

Reach out to the community

Tried everything but still stuck? Don't worry, you are not alone. Explore the GitHub Issue Tracker for Angular CLI or Stack Overflow. Your struggle today might become someone's solution tomorrow!