Microsoft has introduced a new command-line tool called Store CLI for Windows 11, enabling users to manage Microsoft Store applications directly from the Terminal, Command Prompt, or PowerShell. This utility serves as a text-based alternative to the graphical Microsoft Store app, allowing straightforward operations like searching, installing, and updating applications using simple commands.
To get started, users need to run the store command in any terminal window, which will display available subcommands and usage examples.
Key Commands
-
Search for an app:To find a specific application, users can execute:
store search [appname]For instance, to search for Adobe Reader:
store search "adobe reader" -
Find similar apps:To locate applications that are similar to a particular one:
store similar [appname] -
Browse apps:To display various apps, users can run commands like:
store browse-apps top-freestore browse-games top-paid -
Detailed information about an app:To get specifics on a particular app:
store show [appID or appname] -
Installation commands:Apps can be installed simply by specifying the app name or ID:
store install "Application Name" -
List installed apps:To view all currently installed applications:
store installed -
Check for updates:Users can see which apps require updates by executing:
store updates -
Update apps:To force an update on a specific application:
store update "appname" --apply
Unique Features
While Windows includes a package manager called WinGet, Store CLI has specific advantages:
- It specializes in managing apps from the Microsoft Store, including paid options linked to the user’s Microsoft account.
- Store CLI always installs the latest versions of applications.
- It allows users to search for related apps, which can help identify free alternatives to paid software.
Overall, Store CLI is a robust tool that streamlines the management of Microsoft Store applications for Windows 11 users, combining efficiency with simplicity. For further details, please visit Microsoft Store CLI documentation.