Understanding error actions

There are two easy ways to change the way that PowerShell processes errors: the $ErrorAction Preference variable and the -ErrorAction parameter. Let’s look at the variable first.

The $ErrorActionPreference variable

The $ErrorActionPreference automatic variable can be used to alter how PowerShell processes errors. By default, it is set to Continue, which means it displays any error and carries on. These are the more important valid settings for the variable:

• Break: This causes PowerShell to enter debug mode when an error occurs. More on debug mode in the second half of this chapter.
• Continue (default): This displays the error message and continues processing.
• Inquire: This displays the error message and asks for permission to continue or stop.
• SilentlyContinue: The error message is not displayed but is added to the $Error variable. PowerShell continues processing.
• Stop: This displays the error message and stops processing...