PowerShell Language Server process didn't start!

[yrs256]

Prerequisites

• I have written a descriptive issue title.
• I have searched all open and closed issues to ensure it has not already been reported.
• I have read the troubleshooting guide.
• I am sure this issue is with the extension itself and does not reproduce in a standalone PowerShell instance.
• I have verified that I am using the latest version of Visual Studio Code and the PowerShell extension.
• If this is a security issue, I have read the security issue reporting guidance.

Summary

[warning] Loading the PowerShell extension is taking longer than expected. If you're using privilege enforcement software, this can affect start up performance.
[error] Timed out waiting for session file!
[error] PowerShell Language Server process didn't start!

PowerShell Version

Name                           Value                                                                                   
----                           -----                                                                                   
PSVersion                      5.1.22621.6345                                                                          
PSEdition                      Desktop                                                                                 
PSCompatibleVersions           {1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0...}                                                                 
BuildVersion                   10.0.22621.6345                                                                         
CLRVersion                     4.0.30319.42000                                                                         
WSManStackVersion              3.0                                                                                     
PSRemotingProtocolVersion      2.3                                                                                     
SerializationVersion           1.1.0.1

Visual Studio Code Version

1.111.0
x64

Extension Version

ms-vscode.powershell@2025.4.0

Steps to Reproduce

na

Visuals

No response

Logs

No response

[JustinGrote]

Thanks for your submission! Have you tried PowerShell 7? PowerShell 5.1 is best effort support and can have random crashes like this especially if you have things in your profile, so try PowerShell 7 first, and then try removing or disabling your profile. There's a checkbox for this in the settings.

[github-actions]

This issue has been labeled as needing feedback and has not had any activity a week. It has been closed for housekeeping purposes.