package manager Archives

Winsage

May 1, 2025

3 reasons I prefer managing packages with WinGet over Chocolatey now

Package managers streamline software installation and management on PCs, with WinGet being Microsoft's user-friendly solution for Windows 11. Unlike Chocolatey, which requires complex setup, WinGet is ready to use out of the box after accepting license terms. It integrates with PowerToys, allowing users to execute commands via the Command Palette without opening a Terminal. Additionally, WinGet manages applications from the Microsoft Store, providing a comprehensive experience that can yield more relevant search results. While Chocolatey has a larger repository and advanced features for professionals, WinGet is more accessible for average users.

Winsage

April 29, 2025

This App Is the Easiest Way to Find, Install, and Update Software on Windows

Installing software on Windows can be tedious, requiring navigation through the Microsoft Store or manual downloads from official websites, which poses security risks due to potential malware downloads. Linux users benefit from streamlined software installation via package managers. Windows users can utilize a package manager called Winget for command-line installations, but UniGetUI offers a user-friendly visual interface for Winget and other package managers. UniGetUI allows users to search for and install applications easily, supports multiple package managers, and provides a Software Updates tab for managing updates across all sources. It also enables users to create and share bundles of applications for easy reinstallation.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

7 PowerToys Run plug-ins I use to boost my productivity

PowerToys is a suite of productivity tools for Windows 11, featuring over two dozen modules. PowerToys Run is a launcher and search bar that simplifies launching applications and finding files. It can be enhanced with plug-ins, including: - Window Walker: Allows users to search for running applications for quick window switching. - OneNote: Enables quick access to notebooks and pages after activation. - WinGet/Scoop: Streamlines app installation and uninstallation from a trusted repository. - BrowserSearch: Facilitates quick searches of browser history across different web browsers. - FastWeb: Allows users to create shortcuts for websites accessible via text commands. - Everything: Provides a fast search engine for files, improving upon the basic file search capabilities. - Clipboard Manager: Makes clipboard history searchable for easier reuse of text clips.

Winsage

March 19, 2025

3 reasons Chocolatey is an amazing package manager for Windows

Chocolatey is a package manager for Windows 11 that requires initial setup via PowerShell commands but is easy to use once installed. It excels in automation, allowing users to create custom scripts for package deployment and integrates with Ansible for provisioning on virtual machines. Chocolatey has an extensive repository with over 10,000 applications and supports multiple package formats. While the free version is suitable for average users, premium features require a paid license, and alternatives like WinGet may be better for those seeking free and open-source options.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

Chrome OS vs. Windows 11 [Performance and Features]

Microsoft Windows and Google Chrome OS are the most widely adopted desktop operating systems. Windows 11 has stringent hardware requirements, such as TPM 2.0, but offers greater flexibility and compatibility with a wide array of devices. In contrast, Chrome OS is tied to its hardware, making transitions to Windows typically require a new device. Chrome OS supports Android applications and includes a built-in Linux virtual machine, allowing for some offline functionality and development tools, while also featuring Google Assistant. Windows 11 supports a vast range of software, offers browser choice, excels in gaming performance, and provides seamless compatibility with applications, including Linux GUI applications through the Windows Subsystem for Linux.

Winsage

February 25, 2025

Windows Finally Has a ‘Sudo’-Style Command Too

Microsoft introduced a new sudo feature in Windows 11 version 24H2, which began rolling out in October 2024. This feature allows users to execute commands requiring administrative privileges by prefixing them with "sudo." It offers three operational modes: default (executes in a new window), Inline (executes in the same window), and Input closed (executes in the same window without accepting input from other commands). To check for access to this feature, users can navigate to System Settings > System > For developers. If available, users can confirm actions via a pop-up after entering a command with sudo. Users not on version 24H2 or facing compatibility issues may consider using gsudo, an open-source tool that provides a Linux-like experience for command elevation.

Winsage

February 15, 2025

Microsoft adding new PowerToys utlity for Windows package manager (WinGet)

Microsoft's PowerToys suite, designed for power users and Windows enthusiasts, includes features like Advanced Paste, FancyZones, File Explorer add-ons, Registry Preview, and a keyboard and mouse manager. PowerToys Run received a significant update in December, introducing version 2 with a refreshed UI and improved UX. Kayla Cinnamon announced a new utility for installing WinGet packages, which is being developed in collaboration with the Windows Terminal team. Clint Rutkas confirmed that this new feature represents the "next gen version" of PowerToys Run. WinGet is a command line tool for the Windows Package Manager service, automating software installation, upgrading, and configuration.

Winsage

February 14, 2025

PowerToys will soon have native integration with the best Windows 11 tool you should be using

The PowerToys team is collaborating with Windows Terminal developers to introduce an integration that enhances the user experience for the Windows Package Manager (winget). This new functionality aims to simplify the installation process by allowing users to search for and install software with just a few clicks, rather than using complex command inputs. Currently, winget's syntax is less intuitive compared to other package managers, but the integration is expected to make it more user-friendly. A specific release date has not been announced, but regular updates from the PowerToys team suggest the feature may be available soon.

Winsage

February 10, 2025

9 tools that will supercharge your productivity on Windows

- Microsoft Outlook is a free, built-in tool for managing emails, appointments, meetings, and tasks, featuring calendar sharing and integration with Microsoft To Do. - IFTTT automates repetitive tasks by connecting various apps, services, and devices through customized applets. - The Windows Snipping Tool captures screenshots, records desktop activity, supports full-screen video recording, and has OCR capabilities for text extraction from images. - Microsoft PowerToys is a suite of utilities that enhances the Windows experience, including tools for multitasking, file management, and keeping the PC active. - Grammarly provides real-time grammar and spelling checks, compatible with platforms like Microsoft Word and Google Docs, with a premium version offering advanced features. - Obsidian uses Markdown to create interconnected notes, allowing users to build a personal knowledge base with customizable plugins. - Microsoft 365 includes applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, along with collaboration tools like Teams and OneDrive, with regular updates for new features and security. - UniGetUI is a package manager that simplifies app installations by allowing users to select and install multiple applications simultaneously. - Flow Launcher allows users to quickly launch applications, files, and websites, enhancing workflow efficiency and providing flexibility as a portable app or standard installation.

Winsage

February 6, 2025

Debloat and optimize Windows 10 and 11 with open-source WinScript app

WinScript is an open-source application designed to streamline the execution of various scripts and adjustments not readily accessible through the Windows 11 graphical user interface. It categorizes features into sections such as Tools, Debloat, Privacy, Telemetry, Gaming, and Performance. A key feature is the "View Script" tab, allowing users to preview actions before execution. WinScript helps users debloat their system by removing elements like widgets, preinstalled applications, Copilot, Edge, OneDrive, and the Microsoft Store. It also offers options to disable telemetry, restore the classic context menu, and integrates with the Chocolatey package manager for easy installation of applications and utilities. WinScript can be downloaded from its GitHub repository, available in both installer and portable versions.