In the ever-evolving landscape of Windows applications, a significant shift is taking place that promises to enhance user experience while bolstering security. As the digital world becomes increasingly fraught with risks such as malware and ransomware, the call for safer installation practices has never been louder. Security experts universally recommend that users refrain from downloading random installers and instead rely on digitally signed packages from trusted sources. However, many users have found themselves hesitant to embrace the Microsoft Store, often recalling past frustrations that led them to curate their own collection of EXE files.
Fortunately, the good news is that a majority of the applications commonly used on Windows are now readily available through the Microsoft Store or the WinGet package repository. This transition not only simplifies the installation process but also enhances security by ensuring that applications are vetted and signed. The introduction of a remarkable free, open-source application called UniGetUI further streamlines this experience, allowing users to manage and update their software effortlessly.
Most of your Windows apps are already in a trusted repository
Executable installers have long been the primary vector for malware on Windows systems, with even legitimate developer sites occasionally falling prey to compromise. In response to these challenges, Microsoft opened the Microsoft Store to third-party applications several years ago, resulting in a robust collection of vetted software. Users can now find the same Win32 packages they would typically download from a developer’s website, but with the added assurance of security and ease of installation.
For applications that remain outside the Store, the WinGet package repository offers a vast, community-curated catalog of Windows software hosted on GitHub. This repository contains thousands of manifest files that detail safe installation and update procedures directly from original publishers, minimizing the risk associated with potentially compromised installers. The breadth of offerings in these two repositories is impressive, encompassing:
- All Microsoft-published applications
- Major commercial applications such as Google Chrome, Zoom, Dropbox, 1Password, Adobe apps, and more
- A plethora of open-source applications including Rufus, VLC, 7-Zip, and Notepad++
- Comprehensive developer tools like Git, Python, and Docker
With a simple search, users can find and install applications without the hassle of navigating through multiple steps.
UniGetUI takes away the command-line pain
While the Windows Package Manager, Winget, has served as a valuable tool for downloading and updating applications, its command-line interface can be daunting for many users. The Microsoft Store, while more user-friendly, still requires tedious searching and individual installations. Enter UniGetUI, a transformative application that simplifies the entire process.
With over 200 applications installed on one user’s PC, only a couple were sourced from developer websites; the majority were effortlessly managed through UniGetUI. This tool not only facilitates installation but also allows users to create bundles of applications, making it easy to transfer software from one PC to another. The process is straightforward: simply select the desired applications, create a bundle, and install it on a new machine with a few clicks.
Back up your apps and clone them from one PC to another
In a recent experience setting up a new PC, the user utilized UniGetUI to streamline the installation process. Instead of manually installing each application, they created a single bundle file containing all the necessary details. Upon installing UniGetUI on the new PC, they opened the bundle file and watched as the applications downloaded and installed automatically, requiring minimal interaction.
UniGetUI also supports packages from various other repositories, including Scoop, Snap, Chocolatey, Pip, and Npm, making it an invaluable resource for developers.
Keep all those apps up to date
Beyond installation, UniGetUI excels in keeping applications updated. It tracks every app on the PC, allowing users to uninstall unnecessary software easily. Notifications for updates are conveniently provided, enabling users to install multiple updates with a single click. This feature is particularly beneficial for managing libraries and runtime packages essential for third-party applications.
Originally developed by Martà Climent, UniGetUI has recently come under the stewardship of Devolutions, an enterprise software maker committed to maintaining its open-source foundation while enhancing its stability and security. For Windows power users, this tool represents a significant advancement in managing applications efficiently and securely.
