1.1 Objective

In this chapter, we will review what Windows Script Host (WSH) actually is. As WSH will be used throughout this book, this first chapter provides the necessary foundation required to understand subsequent script samples. Those of you who are new to WSH or who are interested in a WSH refresher and an overview of its new features under Windows.NET should not skip this chapter!

WSH is a language-independent scripting host that allows you to run scripts from both the Windows desktop and the command prompt. Reviewing WSH does not involve a review of scripting languages; therefore, it is expected that the reader is familiar with WSH-compatible scripting languages, such as VBScript or JScript. It is also important to note that WSH is often used in combination with other COM objects provided by the Windows system. For instance, it is typical to find WSH samples using Active Directory Service Interfaces (ADSI) to perform some tasks. Reviewing all other COM object models that can be used with WSH is a huge undertaking that contains enough material to produce more than one complete book. This chapter focuses on the WSH COM object model and its associated features, so that you will be prepared to use WSH with Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) in subsequent chapters.

1.2 Some scripting history

Since the introduction of the PC to the world in 1981 1982, there has been a need to automate certain system functions. From the simple .bat (batch file) up to the most complex tasks,...