How to Batch Install Apps on Windows 11: Ultimate Guide

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Are you tired of clicking through installation wizards for every single app you want on your shiny Windows 11 workstation? Fret no more! In this guide, we're diving deep into the world of bulk app installation on Windows 11, equipping you with all the tools you need to transform your PC into a productivity powerhouse, while saving you precious time and clicking fatigue.

Why Batch Install Apps?​

Imagine walking into a restaurant where the menu is infinitely long but the ordering process requires you to place one dish at a time – utter chaos, right? This is what traditional app installation feels like on your computer. Batch installing apps is akin to throwing a banquet feast where you select everything you want in one go, and voilà, it’s all served simultaneously!

The Tools You'll Need​

Here, we'll break down several reliable methods to perform batch installations, enabling you to get those essential apps without the headache of manual installations. Let’s dig in!

1. Winget: The Built-In Powerhouse​

Windows Package Manager (Winget) comes pre-installed with Windows 11, and it’s your secret weapon for quickly installing applications in bulk.

Getting Started with Winget:​

  • Open Command Prompt: Press Windows + S, type “Command Prompt,” and select Run as Administrator.
  • Search for Apps: Use the command:
    Code:
    bash
    winget search "AppName"
    For instance:
    Code:
    bash
    winget search "ShareX"
  • Install Multiple Apps: Collect a few app IDs and run:
    Code:
    bash
    winget install --id=App1 && winget install --id=App2 && winget install --id=App3
This method is not only swift but also leverages Winget's large repository of applications. Installation time will vary based on your internet speed and the number of apps queued.

2. Winstall: Your Graphical Companion​

If command lines make you break into a sweat, Winstall is an elegant solution for you. Think of it as the GUI (Graphical User Interface) relative of Winget.

Using Winstall:​

  • Visit the Winstall Site: Open your favorite browser and navigate to Winstall's website.
  • Select Your Apps: Browse the extensive list, and select all the apps you desire.
  • Generate and Run Your Script: Click "Generate Script," copy the batch command, return to Command Prompt, paste, and hit Enter.
Winstall bridges the gap between user-friendliness and powerful functionality, making it an excellent choice for those more visually inclined.

3. Ninite: The Easy Installer​

Ninite is perhaps the most beloved tool among users who abhor the hassle of install wizards. It creates a custom installer for selected applications and takes care of updates too!

How to Use Ninite:​

  • Go to Ninite’s Website: Head over to Ninite.com.
  • Select Apps: In the “Pick the Apps You Want” section, simply click to choose the applications.
  • Download Your Installer: Click “Get Your Ninite” to fetch your installer, then run it to install all the selected apps in one go.
The best part? Ninite is designed to skip annoying prompts and bundled software, ensuring a smooth installation experience.

4. Chocolatey: For the Advanced User​

If you’re a tech enthusiast who loves to explore, Chocolatey is the package manager that expands your possibilities.

Getting Started with Chocolatey:​

  1. Install Chocolatey: Open PowerShell as Administrator and execute:
    Code:
    bash
    Set-ExecutionPolicy Bypass -Scope Process -Force; [System.Net.ServicePointManager]::SecurityProtocol = [System.Net.SecurityProtocolType]::Tls12; iex ((New-Object System.Net.WebClient).DownloadString('https://community.chocolatey.org/install.ps1'))
  2. Search and Install Apps: Once installed, find apps using:
    Code:
    bash
    choco search "AppName"
  3. Batch Install: Finally, replace "App1," "App2," etc., and run:
    Code:
    bash
    choco install App1 App2 App3 -y
With Chocolatey, the sky's the limit when it comes to available software, giving you rich access to a vast library.

Summary​

Batch installing applications on Windows 11 can save you vast amounts of time and transform your digital workspace into an efficient environment. Whether you opt for command-line methods like Winget and Chocolatey, or favor the graphical simplicity of Winstall and Ninite, there’s a method to fit everyone’s comfort level.
Now that you have your toolkit ready, dive into the world of bulk app installations and make your Windows 11 experience smoother than ever! So, what's stopping you? Install those apps and revel in the freedom of your freshly packed PC!

Source: How-To Geek How to Batch Install Apps on Windows 11
 


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