A few years ago, developers from Microsoft introduced a tool called Windows Package Manager, which provided users with a convenient command-line option to install, update, and remove various applications on computers running Windows 10 or Windows 11 operating systems. The function was very popular with users who prefer to use the console for this purpose, and the developers at Microsoft have made their tool very similar to the package manager used in Linux distributions for decades. But the company’s employees did not stop at the achieved result, gradually updating the tool and making it more convenient.
For example, yesterday, January 23, Microsoft specialists released a major update for the Windows Package Manager, integrating support for alias (aliases – “aliases” that refer to a specific line command, this function is necessary to create alternative versions of standard commands by assigning them new names, thus avoiding the need to remember long and complex command names). Accordingly, now the Windows 10 and Windows 11 tool is even more similar to its Linux-based counterparts, and it will be much more convenient for users to work with the command line using the commands that they have probably been used to for a long time. It is worth noting that all “aliases” are already built into the Windows Package Manager version 1.4, and you can see the full list using the -help command.
Alias cheat sheet:
- “add” as an alias for the “install” command
- “view” as an alias for the “show” command
- “find” as an alias for the “search” command
- “ls” as an alias for the “list” command
- “update” as an alias for the “upgrade” command
- “remove” and “rm” as an alias for the “uninstall” command
- “config” as an alias for the “settings” command
This means that if the user, for example, needs to install the Thunderbird application, then it is enough to open the Windows Terminal console or any other command line, and then type winget install Thunderbird or winget add Thunderbird. In certain situations, if the user works on Linux systems and a PC running Windows 10 or 11, such “aliases” allow you not to get confused in commands. It’s a little ironic, though, that in order to update Windows Package Manager to the latest version that supports new features, the user has to visit the Microsoft Store and download the company’s free app installer.
Source: Trash Box
Charles Grill is a tech-savvy writer with over 3 years of experience in the field. He writes on a variety of technology-related topics and has a strong focus on the latest advancements in the industry. He is connected with several online news websites and is currently contributing to a technology-focused platform.
