Winget: Package Manager for Windows Users

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Although I spend most of my time using Linux and macOS, I sometimes need to use Windows as well. Keeping software updated on a Windows machine can be a tedious and time-consuming process. In contrast, package managers on Linux and macOS make this task much easier. Previously, Windows lacked such a tool. However, with the introduction of Windows 10, Microsoft provided Winget, a package manager that surprisingly many users are unaware of or do not utilize. Yet, it is incredibly easy to use and can save you a lot of time.

What is Winget and How to Use It?

Winget (Windows Package Manager) is a package manager developed by Microsoft that simplifies software installation, updates, and removal on Windows operating systems. Similar to Linux tools like apt or yum, Winget enables Windows users to quickly install, update, and manage various software applications. Winget comes pre-installed with modern versions of Windows. If it is not installed, you can download it via the Microsoft Store by installing the App Installer application. You can use Winget via the command line interface.

How to Open the Command Prompt?

  • Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  • Type cmd and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
  • Alternatively, you can type cmd in the Windows search bar and select Command Prompt from the results.

Advantages of Winget

  • Fast and Easy Updates: Keep all your software up to date within seconds, ensuring system security.
  • Centralized Management: No need to visit different websites to install, update, or uninstall software.
  • Extensive Software Library: Despite being a relatively new system, Winget has a vast software repository, allowing you to download almost anything you need.

Different Use Cases and Commands

1. Installing Software

To install new software, simply specify its name:

winget install firefox

2. Updating Software

If an installed program has a new version, update it with:

winget upgrade vscode

To update all installed programs:

winget upgrade --all

3. Listing Installed Software

To view installed applications and their versions:

winget list

4. Searching for Software

Check if a software package is available in the Winget repository:

winget search software_name

For example, searching for Git:

winget search git

5. Uninstalling Software

Remove unwanted applications easily:

winget uninstall "Zoom"

How to Use Winget in Daily Life?

Winget helps prepare your computer quickly, keeps it updated, and removes unnecessary software. Here are some scenarios where it proves useful:

Setting Up a New Computer: When purchasing a new computer or reinstalling Windows, you can create a list of required software and install everything quickly using Winget.

Regular Updates: Keep all your software updated on a weekly or monthly basis with a single command:

winget upgrade --all

Bloatware Removal: Remove unnecessary pre-installed applications:

winget uninstall "Candy Crush"

Winget Export and Import Commands

Starting from Winget 1.2.0, you can export and import installed software lists. This is useful when formatting your PC and reinstalling the same programs.

Export Installed Software List:

winget export --output apps_backup.json

This command saves all installed applications in JSON format.

Restore Software After Formatting:

winget import --input apps_backup.json

By using the import parameter, you can reinstall all the programs from the JSON file. Amazing, isn’t it?

Winget GUI

If you prefer a graphical interface instead of using the command line, you can try UniGetUI, which provides an intuitive GUI for Winget.

Conclusion

Winget is a revolutionary tool for Windows users. Inspired by Linux package managers, it makes software management on Windows more practical. If you haven’t tried Winget yet, open your command prompt and explore the power of this convenient tool. Who knows, you might prefer Winget over manual updates from now on!

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