winget is the built-in Windows Package Manager for Windows 10 (version 1709 ) and Windows 11 that enables command-line installation, updating, configuration, and removal of software. 2. To check if winget is installed, run "winget --version" in Command Prompt or PowerShell, and if not present, install or update "App Installer" from the Microsoft Store. 3. Search for applications using "winget search [app name]" and note the app's Id for reliable installation. 4. Install apps with "winget install [Id]" and use optional flags like --silent, --scope system, --architecture, --accept-package-agreements, and --accept-source-agreements for customization and automation. 5. List installed apps with "winget list", check for updates with "winget upgrade", upgrade individual or all apps, and uninstall apps using "winget uninstall [Id]". 6. Improve usage by running "winget source update" to refresh the package database, view app details with "winget show", export installed apps to a JSON file with "winget export apps.json", and import them on another machine using "winget import apps.json" for fast setup replication. 7. winget streamlines software management through simple, scriptable commands, making it efficient for both individual and automated setups.

Using winget to install applications in Windows is fast, simple, and great for automating software setup. Here’s how to get started and use it effectively.

What is winget?

winget is the Windows Package Manager built into Windows 10 (version 1709 and later) and Windows 11. It lets you install, update, configure, and remove software from the command line — similar to apt on Linux or brew on macOS.

Check if winget is installed

Most modern Windows systems already have winget installed. To check:

1. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell.
2. Run:

winget --version

If you see a version number (e.g., v1.5.2102), you're good to go. If not, install it from the Microsoft Store:

• Search for "App Installer" in the Microsoft Store.
• Install or update it — winget is included with App Installer.

After installing, restart your terminal or even your PC if winget still isn’t recognized.

Search for an app

Before installing, find the correct app name:

winget search firefox

This returns a list like:

Name                      Id                           Version
---------------------------------------------------------------
Mozilla Firefox           Mozilla.Firefox              127.0

Use the Id (e.g., Mozilla.Firefox) for installation.

Install an application

Use the install command with the app’s ID:

winget install Mozilla.Firefox

You can also use the exact name if you prefer:

winget install --name "Firefox"

But using the ID is more reliable.

Common installation options

You can customize how apps are installed:

• Install silently (no prompts):

  winget install Mozilla.Firefox --silent

• Install for all users (if supported):

  winget install Mozilla.Firefox --scope system

• Specify an installer architecture:

  winget install Mozilla.Firefox --architecture x64

• Force installation without interaction:

  winget install Mozilla.Firefox --silent --accept-package-agreements --accept-source-agreements

These flags are especially useful in scripts or automated setups.

List and manage installed apps

• See all installed apps via winget:

  winget list

• Check for upgradable apps:

  winget upgrade

• Upgrade a specific app:

  winget upgrade Mozilla.Firefox

• Upgrade all apps at once:

  winget upgrade --all

• Uninstall an app:

  winget uninstall Mozilla.Firefox

Tips for better winget use

• Keep the package database updated:

  winget source update

• Show detailed info about an app:

  winget show Microsoft.PowerToys

• Export your list of installed apps:

  winget export apps.json

• Import and reinstall apps on a new PC:

  winget import apps.json

  This is perfect for setting up a new machine quickly.

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  Basically, winget turns software management on Windows into a few quick commands. Whether you're installing one app or automating a full dev environment, it saves time and reduces clicking. Just open PowerShell and start typing — it’s that easy.

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