On Windows 10, winget (Windows Package Manager) comes with Microsoft’s App Installer. To check whether you have it, open PowerShell or Command Prompt and run winget --version. If the command isn’t recognised, update or install App Installer from the Microsoft Store, then open a new terminal window. Winget needs Windows 10 version 1809 or later. Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) now run until October 12, 2027.
Quick Answer
Run winget –version. If it’s missing, get App Installer from the Microsoft Store and reopen the terminal.
Steps to Install or Enable Winget
- Open PowerShell and run
winget --version. - If it isn’t found, open the Microsoft Store, search for App Installer and click Install or Update.
- Close and reopen PowerShell, then run
winget --versionagain. - Try a search:
winget search firefox.
Common Winget Commands
| Command | Does |
|---|---|
winget search NAME |
Finds apps |
winget install --id ID -e |
Installs an exact app ID |
winget upgrade |
Lists available updates |
winget upgrade --all |
Updates everything winget can |
winget uninstall NAME |
Removes an app |
winget list |
Shows installed apps |
Troubleshooting
- “winget is not recognized”: App Installer isn’t installed or updated, or the terminal was open before installing. Restart the terminal.
- Store not available (LTSC or restricted PCs): Microsoft publishes App Installer on its official GitHub releases page; install the .msixbundle and its dependencies.
- Getting started with the terminal: See opening PowerShell.
- Related: See uninstalling programs and installing Node.js (available through winget).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is winget safe?
It installs from Microsoft’s community repository and the Microsoft Store. Check the app ID and publisher before installing.
Does it need admin rights?
Some installers ask for elevation; accept the prompt or run the terminal as administrator.
Is winget included in Windows 11?
Yes, it’s included and updated through App Installer.
Summary
- Run winget –version.
- Install or update App Installer from the Store if needed.
- Reopen the terminal.
- Use search, install and upgrade commands.
Matthew Burleigh is the head writer at solveyourtech.com, where he covers topics like the iPhone, Microsoft Office, and Google apps. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has over 15 years of IT experience.
He has been writing online since 2008 and has published thousands of articles that have been read millions of times.