Learn how to use winget or Windows Package Manager. Discover commands like winget run, winget search, winget chrome, winget upgrade, and more. Step-by-step guide for beginners.
Ever wished updating apps on Windows was as easy as one command? Good news it is! With Windows Package Manager (winget), you can install, update, search, and manage software using simple command-line tools. According to Microsoft, over 2 million winget commands are run every day, proving just how powerful and popular it has become.
I have used winget countless times, and it genuinely feels like having a mini app store inside command prompt or PowerShell. If you want to update all apps at once, install Chrome in seconds, or automate your PC setup, winget makes it easy. In this article, we will break it all down step by step no technical experience required.
What Is Windows Package Manager (Winget)?
Windows Package Manager or commonly known as winget is a command-line tool from Microsoft that lets you install, upgrade, and manage software on Windows systems. Instead of downloading installers from websites, winget fetches them directly from Microsoft’s trusted repository and installs them automatically.
Think of it like the Windows version of apt (Linux) or brew (macOS). It saves time, ensures fresh updates, and can even automate bulk software installations. Power users, IT admins, and everyday Windows users can all benefit from it.
Install Winget How To
Most modern Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems already have winget installed. But if it’s missing, here’s how to get it:
- Open the Microsoft Store.
- Search for App Installer.
- Install or update it, this includes winget.
- Open PowerShell and type:
winget --versionIf it shows a version number, you’re ready to go!
Winget Run Executing Commands Efficiently
The winget run functionality allows you to install and manage apps directly using structured commands. You can create scripts to automate software setup or run commands in sequence for faster deployments.
IT admins often combine winget run with PowerShell scripts to install dozens of apps on new machines with one click. It’s perfect for anyone setting up a fresh PC or managing multiple devices.
Winget Search How to Find Apps Instantly
Want to see if winget supports an app? Use the search command:
winget search appname
Example:
winget search zoom
It will show matching results along with package IDs you can use for installation. You can search by name, publisher, or tags making it fast to check availability before installing.
Winget Chrome Install Google Chrome Quickly
Installing Chrome with winget is incredibly simple:
winget install Google.Chrome
No need to open the browser or download anything manually. If Chrome is already installed, you can upgrade it using:
winget upgrade Google.Chrome
This works perfectly for fresh Windows setups or when recovering from a reset.
Winget 7zip Install Utilities in Seconds
7-Zip is another great example:
winget install 7zip.7zip
You can even combine commands:
winget upgrade --all
This updates every installed app….yes, in one go!
Winget Upgrade vs Winget Update All
winget upgrade checks for available updates:
winget upgrade
winget update all runs updates automatically:
winget upgrade --all
This is ideal for maintenance, especially on work PCs or multiple devices.
Winget Auto Update Set and Forget Software Updates
While winget doesn’t have true automatic updates built-in, you can schedule it using PowerShell and Windows Task Scheduler:
winget upgrade --all
You can automate daily or weekly updates which is perfect for IT teams or power users. It also reduces security risks from outdated apps.
Winget PowerShell Advanced Usage
Winget integrates smoothly with PowerShell scripts, enabling:
- Full PC app deployment
- Bulk installations
- Automated updates
- Software audits
Example:
winget install Notepad++.Notepad++
winget install VLC
winget upgrade --all
With scripts, you can restore your entire software setup on a new PC automatically.
Windows Package Manager is one of the most underrated tools in Windows. With commands like winget update all, you can manage your entire system with a few keystrokes! Whether you’re installing apps, searching packages, or automating updates, winget makes everything faster and smarter.
Give it a try you might never go back to manual installs again.
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