> Is the first shell a powershell If it is, it explains some of what's being reported here, since [PowerShell lacks redirect-in-from][0], a.k.a. the `<` operation. You'd need to use [Larry's pipe-thru alternative][1] to achieve the OP's desired end with PowerShell. I don't see that this explains the secondary command window, though. [0]: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/powershell/module/microsoft.powershell.core/about/about_redirection [1]: /forumpost/ca499cfaa6?t=h