Streamline Your App Management with Winget: A Step-by-Step Guide

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to update an app using Winget. Additionally, we’ll discuss its key benefits and share a real-life example to demonstrate its effectiveness.

To begin with, here’s a quick step-by-step guide to update an app using Winget:

• Open the Command Prompt or PowerShell as an administrator.

• Use the command winget upgrade to check for available updates.

• If updates are available, use the command winget upgrade –all to update all installed apps.

• Alternatively, you can update a specific app by using the command winget upgrade <app_name>.

However, this is just an overview of the steps. As you continue reading the blog, you’ll find more detailed instructions on how to update an app using Winget.

We’ve included a comprehensive, step-by-step guide further down to ensure you have all the information you need.   

What is Winget and what are its key benefits ?

Winget, short for Windows Package Manager, is a command-line tool developed by Microsoft that simplifies the process of installing, updating, and managing software on Windows operating systems.

One of Winget’s key features is the ability to easily update an application, which allows users to keep their software up to date with minimal effort.

Additionally, it enables users to easily find and install applications from a centralized repository, making software management more efficient.

Furthermore, Winget is particularly useful for developers and IT professionals who need to manage multiple applications on different systems.

Key benefits of using Winget

• Easy Installation and Updates: First, with Winget, you can install and update applications with just a few simple commands. Consequently, there’s no more searching for installers or dealing with complex setup processes.

• Centralized Management: Moreover, you can keep track of all your installed applications in one place. Winget provides a complete overview of your software inventory.

• Time Saving: In addition, you can automate the process of updating your applications, freeing up your time for more important tasks.

• Consistent Experience: Furthermore, Winget ensures a consistent installation and update experience across different applications, reducing the risk of conflicts or errors.

• Community- Driven Repository: Also, you can benefit from a growing community of developers who contribute to the Winget repository, expanding the range of applications available.

• Integration with other tools: Winget can be easily integrated with other tools and workflows, making it a versatile addition to your toolbox.

Whether you are a casual user or a system administrator, Winget can significantly improve your application management experience.   

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How Does it Work ?

• First, open a Command Prompt or PowerShell: This is your gateway to the Winget world.

• Next, search for an App: Type winget search <app name>. For example, to find the latest version of Visual Studio Code, you’d enter winget search vscode.

• Then, install the App: Once you’ve found the app you want, use winget install <app name>. Winget will fetch the installer and guide you through the installation process.  

• Finally, update Your Apps: To keep your apps fresh, simply run winget upgrade. Winget will scan your system for outdated apps and offer to update them.  

How to update an App using Winget ?

Updating an app using Winget is a straightforward process that can save you time and ensure your software is up to date. Below are the methods you can use to update an app with detailed steps for each.

Method 1: Update a Specific App

Open Command Prompt or PowerShell:

• To begin, press Win + X and select “Windows Terminal” or “Windows PowerShell” from the menu.

Check for Available Updates:

• Before updating, you can check if a specific app needs an update. First, use the following command to list all installed applications: winget list

• Subsequently, this will display a list of installed applications along with their versions.

Update the App:

• Next, to update a specific app, use the following command: winget upgrade <app_name>

• Then, replace <app_name> with the name of the application you want to update. For example, to update Google Chrome, you would type:  winget upgrade Google.Chrome

Follow Prompts:

• Finally, if prompted, follow any on-screen instructions to complete the update. Winget will handle the download and installation process for you.

Method 2: Update All Installed Apps

Open Command Prompt or PowerShell:

• As before, press Win + X and select “Windows Terminal” or “Windows PowerShell.”

Update All Apps:

• To update all installed applications at once, use the following command:  winget upgrade –all

• Consequently, this command will check for updates for all installed apps and prompt you to install them.

Follow Prompts:

• If prompted, follow any on-screen instructions to complete the updates for all applications. Notably, this method is efficient and ensures that your software is up to date without having to check each app individually.

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Method 3: Check for Available Updates Without Installing

Open Command Prompt or PowerShell:

• First, press Win + X and select “Windows Terminal” or “Windows PowerShell.”

Check for Available Updates:

• Subsequently, to see which apps have updates available without installing them, use: winget upgrade

• As a result, this command will list all applications that have updates available, along with their current and available versions.

Method 4: Update a Specific Version of an App

Open Command Prompt or PowerShell:

• To start, press Win + X and select “Windows Terminal” or “Windows PowerShell.”

Find the App and Version:

• Initially, you may want to check the available versions of the app. Use: winget show <app_name>

• Then, replace <app_name> with the name of the application. This will show you the available versions.

Update to a Specific Version:

• If you want to upgrade to a specific version, use: winget upgrade <app_name> –version <version_number>

• Next, replace <version_number> with the desired version you want to install.

Follow Prompts:

• Lastly, follow any on-screen instructions to complete the update.

Additional Tips

• Search for Apps: If you are unsure of the exact name of the app, you can search for it using: winget search <search_term>

• Then, replace <search_term> with a keyword related to the app.

• Help Command: Additionally, if you need more information about the winget commands, you can always type: winget –help

By following these methods, you can easily update applications using Winget on your Windows system. Ultimately, this tool not only simplifies the update process but also helps ensure that your software remains secure and functional.  

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Conclusion  

In conclusion, Winget is a powerful tool that simplifies application management on Windows systems. By following the provided step-by-step guide, you can easily update your applications with a few simple commands.

Moreover, whether you choose to update a specific application or all installed applications at once, Winget simplifies the process, saving you valuable time and effort.

It’s important to remember that keeping keeping your software up to date is essential for security and performance. With Winget, you no longer need to manually check for updates or navigate through different installers.

Furthermore, its centralized management and community repository make it an invaluable asset for casual users and IT professionals alike.

Ultimately, by making Winget a part of your routine, you will spend less time on software maintenance and more time on the tasks that really matter.

Source: [ microsoft, github, xda-developers, prajwaldesai, pureinfotech ]

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