package managers Archives

Winsage

November 9, 2025

I finally started using Linux-style package management on Windows, and I should have sooner

WinGet is a native package manager for Windows 10 and 11 that simplifies software installation and management. It allows users to install software using terminal commands, significantly reducing the time and steps involved compared to traditional methods. WinGet offers a silent installation option, enabling users to bypass installation prompts. It also allows access to multiple versions of software packages and provides a command to check for updates across all installed applications. Users can upgrade all apps at once with a single command. WinGet's command structure is user-friendly, and comprehensive documentation is available. Additionally, it can export and import installed packages, making it easier to set up a new PC. WinGet is considered a more robust solution compared to alternatives like Ninite, as it is a trusted, native tool for software management on Windows.

Winsage

November 3, 2025

Stop downloading software from websites: Windows has a built-in package manager

Windows 11 users can utilize Winget, or Windows Package Manager, for downloading applications through the command line via Windows Terminal. Winget allows users to search for applications using the command "winget search" and install them using their IDs with "winget install," which is faster and reduces confusion compared to traditional web-based methods. It enhances security by sourcing applications from trusted locations like the Microsoft Store and the Winget repository on GitHub, where submissions undergo a vetting process. Additionally, Winget enables users to create a backup file of installed software, facilitating quick setups on new devices or after system resets by allowing users to import the list and reinstall applications efficiently.

Winsage

October 23, 2025

The end of Windows 10 has been a boon for one particular Linux distro – and I’m not surprised

Support for Windows 10 officially ended recently, leaving users with unsupported PCs to consider transitioning to MacOS or Linux. Zorin OS launched its significant upgrade, Zorin OS 18, which received over 100,000 downloads in two days, with 72% coming from Windows machines. Échirolles, France, has transitioned its town hall computers to Free & Open Source software, including Zorin OS, although only 10% of those machines are using it. Microsoft is offering an additional year of security updates for Windows 10 for a fee. The "End of 10" campaign provides guidance for Windows 10 users transitioning to Linux. Linux has a wide range of applications and is considered accessible for those familiar with Windows. Continuing to use Windows 10 without support poses security risks, while Linux offers a seamless upgrade process without new hardware requirements. Zorin OS can mimic the Windows interface and supports running Windows applications through Wine. Users must decide whether to invest in a new Windows 11 computer or explore Linux as a cost-saving alternative.

Winsage

October 21, 2025

Why the end of Windows 10 is great news for Linux – and your chance to switch

Support for Windows 10 officially ended recently, prompting users of unsupported PCs to consider alternatives like MacOS or Linux. Zorin OS launched its significant upgrade, Zorin OS 18, coinciding with this change, achieving over 100,000 downloads in two days, with 72% from Windows users. The city of Échirolles in France has transitioned its town hall computers to Free & Open Source software, including Zorin OS, although only 10% are currently using it. Microsoft is offering an additional year of security updates for Windows 10 for a fee, but many users are looking for alternatives. Linux is presented as a reliable and user-friendly option, with strong software availability and security features. Zorin OS is highlighted as a suitable replacement for Windows, offering customization to mimic the Windows interface and tools for running Windows applications.

Winsage

September 9, 2025

5 apps that are way better on Linux than they are on Windows

GIMP and Krita perform better on Linux due to their native integration with system libraries (GTK for GIMP and Qt for Krita), resulting in a more responsive user experience compared to Windows. Kdenlive, a video editing software, is more stable on Linux, with fewer crashes and better performance due to its native MLT framework, while the Windows version often experiences issues. OBS Studio benefits from direct access to hardware resources on Linux, leading to lower latency and reduced CPU/GPU load, while capturing per-application audio is easier on Linux. VLC Media Player on Linux comes with full codec support out of the box, unlike the Windows version, which requires additional downloads. Linux's package management system allows for centralized software distribution and efficient dependency tracking, making it more secure and streamlined than Windows' fragmented approach to software management.

Winsage

August 7, 2025

Updating your Linux kernel sounds scary, but here’s why it’s no different from a Windows update

Updating the Linux kernel is generally straightforward and low-risk, similar to Windows updates. Most Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and Linux Mint, manage kernel updates automatically through the package manager. When a new kernel is installed, the previous version remains intact, allowing users to revert to it if necessary via the GRUB boot menu. Kernel updates provide essential security patches, bug fixes, and improved hardware support. While manual installation of a kernel is possible, it is not required for most users. Tools are available for easier management of kernel versions, but the update process is designed to be user-friendly and safe.

Winsage

July 23, 2025

3 easy ways to turn Windows Terminal shells from drab to drip — customize both PowerShell and WSL with these same tools

- The Starship prompt enhances the command line experience with a sleek design, customization options, and compatibility across different shells. It requires a NerdFont for effective operation and can be installed via the Windows Package Manager for PowerShell or various package managers for WSL. Configuration involves adding specific commands to shell profiles and creating a configuration file. - Fastfetch is a lightweight system information display tool that serves as a modern alternative to Neofetch, supporting both Windows and Linux. Installation can be done through various package managers, and configuration is achieved by generating a config file. - Windows Terminal on Windows 11 can be customized for a more personalized experience, including theme changes, font adjustments, and transparency. Customizations can be made via the GUI or by editing a JSON configuration file. - To use Starship and Fastfetch upon startup in PowerShell, a PowerShell profile must be created using a specific command, allowing users to add necessary commands for these tools.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft wants Windows to update all software on your PC

Microsoft has introduced an update orchestration platform to improve the Windows Update infrastructure, streamlining the updating process for applications, drivers, and system components. Developers and IT teams can onboard updates using Windows Runtime (WinRT) APIs or PowerShell commands and can join the private preview by contacting unifiedorchestrator@service.microsoft.com. The platform includes an update scan tool that manages downloads and installations based on user activity, power status, and network conditions, while also handling restart requirements and notification deadlines. It is currently in private preview for developers creating apps or management tools for updates, supporting applications packaged as MSIX, APPX, or Win32 installers. The platform offers a consistent notification experience and centralized app update history within the Settings app, and it works alongside Microsoft's Winget package manager and third-party tools like Chocolatey and Scoop.

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 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.