Allow scripts stored on your machine to run un-signed

For security reasons, PowerShell is set up by default to only allow signed scripts to execute. Executing the following command will allow you to run unsigned scripts (you must run PowerShell as Administrator to do this).

Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned

Another way to run PowerShell scripts is to use Bypass as ExecutionPolicy:

powershell.exe -ExecutionPolicy Bypass -File "c:\MyScript.ps1"

Or from within your existing PowerShell console or ISE session by running:

Set-ExecutionPolicy Bypass Process

A temporary workaround for execution policy can also be achieved by running the Powershell executable and passing any valid policy as -ExecutionPolicy parameter. The policy is in effect only during process’ lifetime, so no administrative access to the registry is needed.

C:\>powershell -ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned

There are multiple other policies available, and sites online often encourage you to use Set-ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted. This policy stays in place until changed, and lowers the system security stance. This is not advisable. Use of RemoteSigned is recommended because it allows locally stored and written code, and requires remotely acquired code be signed with a certificate from a trusted root.

Also, beware that the Execution Policy may be enforced by Group Policy, so that even if the policy is changed to Unrestricted system-wide, Group Policy may revert that setting at its next enforcement interval (typically 15 minutes). You can see the execution policy set at the various scopes using Get-ExecutionPolicy -List

TechNet Documentation:

Set-ExecutionPolicy

about_Execution_Policies