Windows Update, Patch My PC, Winget
Updating your Windows PC can be done through multiple methods, each serving different purposes and covering various types of updates. The regular Windows Update feature, which is accessible through the Settings app, primarily focuses on system updates, security patches, and core Windows components. This method is essential for keeping your operating system secure and up-to-date. It should run automatically in the background, but I, being ADD run it most every couple of days. To access it type, “updates” after you click your menu button and click, “Check for updates.” After you click it, if updates are available, click on “Download and install now” to begin the update process.
On the other hand, the Microsoft Store app update feature is specifically designed to update applications that were downloaded and installed from the Microsoft Store. This includes both Microsoft’s own apps and third-party applications available through the Store. To use this method, you can open the Microsoft Store app. Just click the menu button again and type, “store” and click on “Microsoft Store.” Now, go to the Library section, and check for updates or use the “Update All” button. You may, or may not have, installed applications from the store. Of course, your computer may have done it at MS’s command and you know nothing about them. To use it, open the Microsoft Store app from your Windows menu button and click on your profile picture or icon in the top right corner. Then, click on downloads and updates. Finally, click on Get updates to check for available updates for installed applications.
Winget, the Windows Package Manager, offers a command-line approach to updating applications. It can update both Microsoft Store apps and many non-Store applications. This may be scary to some, but can be run quite easily. Just do not add anything to this text, unless you know what you are doing. To use Winget, you open Command Prompt. To get to the Prompt, click the menu button and type “CMD” when it pops up click on “Run as Administrator.” Once the black box opens up type, “Winget upgrade” to list available updates. If you have a lot you need to update, at the same command line type, “Winget upgrade –all.” This will update all applications. It is worth noting that while this method is powerful and convenient, it may not cover all types of updates on your system. I have also had it install the same app many times…thanks Microsoft! Do not worry this will not destroy anything.
Of course, I could not write this without mentioning one of my favorites, Patch My PC (patchmypc.com/home). This is the problem, I have mentioned it many times at GrayHaired.Tech, so you can read about it in detail. Visit the YouTube video below for details.
These methods show different results because they target different aspects of your system. Windows Update focuses on the core operating system, the Microsoft Store handles its own apps, and Winget can cover a broader range of applications, including those not available through the Store. Additionally, update availability can vary based on the app developer’s release schedule and distribution method. This diversity in update sources ensures comprehensive coverage for different types of software on your Windows PC, from system components to various applications.
As for why they all have different results, it is because each method focuses on different aspects of updating your Windows PC. The Windows Update feature prioritizes Windows updates, while the Microsoft Store app update focuses on application updates. Winget, on the other hand, allows for more flexibility and control over the update process.
And my fav, Patch My PC has only 532 available apps it can install. They are increasing all the time. That was 512 just a couple of weeks ago. Things are always changing.
