MC1153657 – Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC) removal from Windows

Product:

Windows

Platform:

Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Admin impact

Links:

Details:

Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC) tool will be removed when upgrading to Windows 11, version 25H2. All later releases for Windows 11 will not include WMIC added by default. Microsoft recommends using PowerShell and other modern tools for any tasks previously done with WMIC. Note: Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) itself remains part of Windows.

When will this happen:
A new installation of Windows 11, version 24H2 already has WMIC removed by default (it's only installable as an optional feature).
WMIC will be removed from Windows 11, version 25H2 and later.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-09-16

updated:
2025-09-16

Task Type

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Preperations

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Loss of WMIC functionality
Users will lose access to WMIC commands, which may disrupt workflows that rely on this tool for system management tasks.
   - roles: System Administrators, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/windows-management-instrumentation-command-line-wmic-removal-from-windows-e9e83c7f-4992-477f-ba1d-96f694b8665d

Increased training needs
Staff will require training to adapt to PowerShell and other modern tools, leading to potential delays in task completion during the transition period.
   - roles: System Administrators, Developers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/scripting/learn/ps101/07-working-with-wmi?view=powershell-7.5

Documentation updates
Internal IT documentation will need to be revised to reflect the removal of WMIC and the introduction of alternative tools, which may lead to inconsistencies if not managed properly.
   - roles: IT Documentation Specialists, System Administrators
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/how-to-install-wmic-feature-on-demand-on-windows-11/4189530

Potential for increased errors
Without proper preparation, users may attempt to use WMIC commands, leading to errors and confusion, impacting productivity.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/win32/wmisdk/wmic

Dependency on legacy systems
Organizations that have not transitioned to PowerShell may face challenges in managing legacy systems, leading to operational inefficiencies.
   - roles: System Administrators, Network Engineers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/win32/wmisdk/wmi-start-page

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Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Windows is making a change by removing the Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC) tool from future versions of Windows 11, starting with version 25H2. Think of WMIC as an old tool in a toolbox that’s being replaced by newer, more efficient tools. In this case, the new tools are PowerShell and other modern alternatives that can perform the same tasks, but in a more streamlined and effective way.

Imagine you have an old car that has served you well for many years. It gets you from point A to point B, but it’s not as fuel-efficient or reliable as newer models. Eventually, you decide to upgrade to a new car that has better features, is more reliable, and meets modern standards. Similarly, Microsoft is encouraging users to switch from WMIC to PowerShell, which is like the new car in this analogy. PowerShell is more versatile and is better suited for current and future computing needs.

The core functionality of Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) remains in Windows, much like the essential components of your old car are still part of the new model. It’s just the command-line tool, WMIC, that’s being phased out. This change is aimed at simplifying Windows and ensuring that users have access to more powerful and flexible tools.

For tasks you previously handled with WMIC, you can use PowerShell commands. For example, if you used WMIC to list process names, you can achieve the same result with a PowerShell command. This transition might require some adjustments, similar to learning the features of a new car, but it ultimately leads to a better experience.

Updating your internal IT documentation and processes to reflect this change will help ensure a smooth transition. Just as you would update your driving habits and maintenance routines with a new car, adapting to these new tools will keep your systems running efficiently.