Introduction
We have all done it. You need a specific piece of software, so you Google it, click the first "Download" button you see, and pray it isn't malware.
For decades, this "hunting and gathering" method was the only way to install apps on Windows. But it is risky, slow, and outdated. If you download the wrong .exe file from a phishing site, your PC is compromised before you even click "Install."
There is a better way. It’s called a Package Manager. It’s how Linux users have survived for years, and thanks to modern updates in Windows 10 and 11, it is now the safest and fastest way for you to manage your software, too.
What Is a Package Manager?
Think of a package manager as an App Store for Power Users, but without the slow graphical interface.
When you use the Microsoft Store or a website, you are clicking buttons. When you use a package manager, you type a simple command, and the tool handles the rest. It locates the correct files from a trusted "repository" (a master list of safe software), verifies that the file hasn't been tampered with, and installs it.
Why switch?
- Speed: Install 5 apps in the time it takes to open one web browser.
- Silence: No clicking "Next, Next, I Agree, Next" on setup wizards.
- Updates: Update every app on your PC with a single command.
How to Use Winget (Step-by-Step)
Since Winget is built-in, you can try this right now without installing anything. (ads)
Step 1: Open the Terminal
Right-click your Start Button and select Terminal (admin) or PowerShell.
Step 2: Search for an App
Not sure what the app is called? Search for it.
winget search vlc
Step 3: Install the App
Once you see the ID (e.g., VideoLAN.VLC), install it. (ads)
winget install VideoLAN.VLC
Boom. It downloads and installs VLC Media Player instantly.
Step 4: Update Everything (The Best Part)
This is the killer feature. Type this command to check every app on your PC and update them all at once:
winget upgrade --all
Why This is More Secure
You might be thinking, "Isn't the command line scary?" Actually, downloading files from Chrome is scarier Here's why package managers are safer: (ads)
1. The Chain of Trust
When you download an .exe from the web, you hope it’s the real one. When you use Winget, it consults a "Manifest"—a strict recipe managed by Microsoft or the community. If the source isn't on the approved list, it won't download.
2. Hash Verification (The Fingerprint)
This is the technical magic. Every safe installer has a cryptographic fingerprint (SHA-256 hash). Before Winget runs an installer, it calculates the file's hash locally.
If the downloaded file differs by even one byte (because of a hacker, a virus, or a corrupted server), the hash won't match, and Winget will abort the installation immediately. You get a mathematical guarantee that the software is genuine.
Section 5: Advanced Tips / Byteswift Digital Bonus
The "New PC" Setup Script
Setting up a fresh laptop usually takes hours. With Winget, it takes 5 minutes. You can chain commands together to install your "Starter Pack" in one go.
Copy-paste this into your terminal to install Chrome, Discord, Steam, and 7-Zip all at once:
winget install Google.Chrome Discord.Discord Valve.Steam 7zip.7zip
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Winget work on Windows 10?
Yes, but you might need to update the "App Installer" from the Microsoft Store first. On Windows 11, it works out of the box.
2. Can I uninstall apps with it too?
Yes. Just type winget uninstall [AppName]. It is often cleaner than using the Control Panel.
3. Is this the same as the Microsoft Store?
Sort of, but better. The Microsoft Store is limited to apps submitted to Microsoft. Winget can install almost anything—including apps not in the Store, like Zoom, specialized dev tools, or older utilities.
Conclusion
The era of downloading random .exe files is ending. It is insecure, inefficient, and unnecessary.
Even if you aren't a "coder," learning the winget upgrade --all command will save you hours of time and keep your PC patched against the latest security threats. Give the terminal a try—you might find you prefer it.