A Comprehensive Guide to WinGet: The Windows Package Manager
Introduction
Managing applications on Windows has always been a tedious task, requiring users to download installers manually, keep track of updates, and uninstall software when needed. Microsoft’s WinGet (Windows Package Manager) simplifies this process by providing a powerful command-line tool to install, upgrade, and manage applications seamlessly. In this blog, we will explore what WinGet is, how to install it, and how to use it effectively for managing applications on Windows.
1. What is WinGet?
WinGet is a package manager for Windows developed by Microsoft. It allows users to install, upgrade, and manage software applications using simple commands. Inspired by package managers from Linux environments (such as apt and yum), WinGet eliminates the need for manual downloads and provides an automated way to handle software.
Key Features of WinGet:
- Install Applications Easily: Install software using a simple command without opening a browser.
- Update Applications Effortlessly: Update installed apps without manual intervention.
- List Installed Applications: View and manage installed software quickly.
- Uninstall Applications: Remove unwanted applications from your system.
- Export and Import App Lists: Manage application lists for easy migration.
- Support for GUI and CLI: Use both a graphical interface and command-line commands.
History and Development of WinGet
WinGet was first announced by Microsoft at the Build 2020 conference as an alternative to third-party package managers like Chocolatey and Scoop. The goal was to provide a seamless, first-party tool for managing software installations and updates on Windows. Since its launch, WinGet has evolved to support more functionalities, including Microsoft Store integration, third-party repositories, and export/import features for managing app lists efficiently.
2. Comparison with Other Package Managers
While WinGet is a powerful tool, it’s not the only package manager available for Windows. Here’s a comparison with some other popular package managers:
Chocolatey is more feature-rich in terms of enterprise-level deployments, while Scoop focuses on lightweight apps and portable software. However, WinGet is the best choice for native Windows users who want seamless integration with Microsoft services.
3. How to Download WinGet from Winget.run
WinGet comes pre-installed with Windows 10 (version 1709 and later) and Windows 11. However, if your system does not have it, you can download it manually from winget.run.
Steps to Download WinGet from winget.run:
- Open your web browser and visit winget.run.
- Click on the Install WinGet option on the top left of the page.
- This will download the file Microsoft.DesktopAppInstaller_8wekyb3d8bbwe.msixbundle.
- This file can be used to install the WinGet utility.
4. How to Install WinGet
If you have an older version of Windows that does not include WinGet, you can install it manually using the downloaded file.
Steps to Install WinGet Manually:
- Check if WinGet is Pre-installed:
- Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and run:
winget –version
- If it shows an error, proceed with the next step.
2. Use Add-AppxPackage to Install WinGet:
- Open PowerShell as Administrator.
- Navigate to the location where Microsoft.DesktopAppInstaller_8wekyb3d8bbwe.msixbundle is downloaded.
- Run the following command:
Add-AppxPackage -Path .\Microsoft.DesktopAppInstaller_8wekyb3d8bbwe.msixbundle
- This will install WinGet on your system.
3. Verify Installation:
winget –version
- If a version number is displayed, the installation was successful.
5. How to Install a Store App Using WinGet (GUI & CMD)
WinGet allows you to install Microsoft Store applications using both GUI and Command Line.
5.1 Installing Apps Using WinGet Command-Line
To install any Microsoft Store app using the command line, follow these steps:
- Open Command Prompt or PowerShell as Administrator.
- Type the following command to search for the app you want to install. For example, to find the Snipping Tool:
winget search “Snipping Tool”
3. Once you find the correct package name, install it using:
winget install “Snipping Tool”
4. Wait for the installation to complete.
5. You can now find the app in the Start Menu.
5.2 Installing Apps Using WinGet GUI
Microsoft has introduced a WinGet GUI interface for users who prefer graphical installation.
Steps to Install an App Using WinGet GUI:
- Open Microsoft Store.
- Search for App Installer and install it if not already installed.
- Open the Windows Package Manager GUI.
- Use the search bar to find the app (e.g., Snipping Tool).
- Click on the app and press Install.
- The app will be installed automatically.
6. Advanced WinGet Features
6.1 Updating Applications Using WinGet
You can update installed applications using the following command:
winget upgrade –all
This will update all outdated applications on your system.
6.2 Listing Installed Applications
To view all installed applications:
winget list
6.3 Uninstalling Applications
To uninstall an application:
winget uninstall “App Name”
For example, to uninstall VLC Media Player:
winget uninstall VLC
6.4 Exporting and Importing Application Lists
To export installed applications for migration:
winget export -o apps.json
To import and install all apps on another system:
winget import -i apps.json
7. Troubleshooting Common WinGet Issues
Error: Command Not Found – Ensure WinGet is installed and added to the system path.
Installation Fails – Run PowerShell as an Administrator and check permissions.
Source Not Found – Use winget source list to verify available sources.
Closing Summary
WinGet is a powerful and efficient tool for managing software on Windows. Whether you prefer using the command line or GUI, it simplifies software installation, updates, and management. By integrating WinGet into your workflow, you can save time and enhance productivity while keeping your applications up to date.
We hope this guide helps you get started with WinGet! Let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Happy Installing! 🚀