package manager Archives

Winsage

May 14, 2025

13 Windows tricks that will make you a pro

Windows Terminal is a modern command interface introduced in Windows 11 and updated in Windows 10, serving as a shell for Command Prompt and PowerShell. It allows users to open multiple tabs and access unique commands for each environment. Certain system settings and Windows registry modifications are easier through Terminal. The built-in tool Winget enables users to install, update, and uninstall applications from the Microsoft Store. For example, to install Microsoft PowerToys, the command is: PLACEHOLDER4e6e62aa140fd021. Users can view available features by typing PLACEHOLDER156ddf6fbe029a6a, and can get help with specific commands by appending PLACEHOLDER6c47266b38ce590a. To install software for all users, the command is modified with PLACEHOLDER2401129c8584a179. Updating applications can be done with the command winget upgrade –all –silent, although administrative privileges may be required. Chocolatey is another package manager available for software management, though its installation is more complex.

Winsage

May 11, 2025

I started dual-booting NixOS alongside Windows, and I’m so glad I did

Dual-booting allows users to navigate between Windows and Linux, with NixOS being a notable Linux distribution due to its unique package management system that isolates each package in its own immutable path, preventing dependency conflicts. NixOS uses a single configuration file for system management, enabling atomic changes and easy rollbacks. Users have reported that NixOS provides a streamlined experience compared to Windows, which is often cluttered with advertisements and notifications, and feels sluggish. Daily use of NixOS is described as straightforward and enjoyable, allowing for easy customization and experimentation without the fear of disrupting the system. While some users still rely on Windows for specific applications, NixOS offers a stable and personalized environment that enhances the overall computing experience.

Winsage

May 9, 2025

You Need a Windows Package Manager — Virtualization Review

Microsoft's WinGet is a command-line tool for managing software on Windows, allowing users to install, update, list, and uninstall applications. UniGetUI is an open-source graphical user interface that enhances WinGet's functionality, making it easier for users to manage software without using the command line. UniGetUI supports various package managers and features batch operations, automatic updates, and custom installation options. To install UniGetUI, users can execute the command winget install --exact --id MartiCliment.UniGetUI --source winget or download it from the Microsoft Store. Users can easily navigate its interface to discover, install, and uninstall packages.

Winsage

May 7, 2025

Microsoft finally makes Fedora an official Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) distribution

Fedora Linux has officially joined the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), allowing users to run Fedora 42 within a Windows environment. Installation is straightforward with the command wsl --install FedoraLinux-42, and launching it requires wsl -d FedoraLinux-42, with no password needed by default. Users are automatically added to the wheel group for sudo access. Fedora 42 is streamlined, excluding unnecessary packages, and includes the DNF package manager, though Flatpak must be installed manually for graphical applications. The Fedora team is working on enhancing Flatpak support and introducing hardware-accelerated graphics for GUI applications in WSL. This inclusion of Fedora expands the options available to Windows users interested in the Linux ecosystem.

Winsage

May 6, 2025

Ready to ditch Windows for good? This is the Linux distro I recommend for beginners

SDesk is a free Linux distribution designed for users hesitant to explore Arch-based systems. It features a user-friendly interface utilizing the GNOME desktop environment, with a traditional layout that includes a panel, menu, top bar, and desktop icons. Pre-installed applications include LibreOffice, Geary, GNOME Music, GNOME Video, Octopi, GNOME Maps, and Swirl. Users can install additional software easily through Octopi and Flatpak. SDesk offers commendable performance with swift application launches and effective window snapping capabilities. However, it has some issues, including a bug that can cause the desktop to freeze upon reboot after an update and the lack of multimedia codecs for MP3 and MP4 playback, which can be resolved by installing VLC media player.

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.