How to Use Winget to Manage Apps in Windows 11

The Windows Package Manager, commonly known as winget, is a built-in command-line tool in Windows 11 designed to streamline software management. This guide covers the essential commands and steps required to search for, install, update, and uninstall software packages using winget directly from the Windows Terminal.

Accessing Winget

Windows Package Manager comes pre-installed on Windows 11. To start using it:

  1. Right-click the Start button.
  2. Select Terminal or Terminal (Admin) (Admin is recommended for software installations requiring elevated permissions).

Searching for Software

To find a specific application, use the search command followed by the app name or keyword:

winget search <app_name>

Example:

winget search vlc

The output will display the app’s Name, unique Id, Version, and Source. Using the Id ensures you install the exact software you want.

Installing Software

To install an application, use the install command:

winget install <app_name>

For higher accuracy, install using the specific package ID:

winget install --id VideoLAN.VLC

To accept source agreements and licenses automatically during silent installs, add the following flags:

winget install --id VideoLAN.VLC --silent --accept-package-agreements --accept-source-agreements

Viewing Installed Software

To see a list of all applications currently installed on your computer that winget can manage:

winget list

You can also filter the list by appending a search term:

winget list chrome

Updating Software

To check which installed applications have available updates:

winget upgrade

To update a specific application:

winget upgrade --id <Package.ID>

To update all installed applications at once:

winget upgrade --all

Uninstalling Software

To remove an application from your system:

winget uninstall <app_name>

Or by using the package ID:

winget uninstall --id <Package.ID>

Exporting and Importing Package Lists

You can export a list of your installed applications to set up a new Windows 11 PC quickly.