Before the Windows Store: Package Managers and Software Repositories

The State of Application Distribution on Windows

Today, app stores are a ubiquitous feature of modern operating systems. Users of both iOS and Android benefit from centralized application distribution and automated updates. Similarly, Mac OS X users can acquire software through the Mac App Store.

Linux distributions also provide a convenient method for software installation and management via package managers and extensive software repositories.

A Persistent Gap: The Windows Desktop

However, one platform has largely remained outside this trend: the traditional Windows desktop environment. A streamlined, centralized application distribution system has been historically absent.

While various solutions have emerged to address this need, offering app store-like functionality for Windows desktop applications, a truly comprehensive solution has been elusive.

Emerging Solutions and Microsoft's Approach

Several tools are available that attempt to replicate the app store experience for Windows, simplifying software installation and updates. Microsoft itself is introducing an app store with Windows 8.

It’s important to note that the Windows Store, as currently conceived, will primarily feature modern apps. It will provide links to traditional desktop programs, but won't offer a unified installation process or automatic update capabilities for those applications.

Therefore, a gap remains in providing a fully integrated app store experience for conventional Windows desktop software.

Allmyapps

Allmyapps functions as a dedicated application marketplace designed for Windows PCs. It boasts a catalog exceeding 16,000 different applications. Users can discover a wide range of software, encompassing titles like Minecraft, alongside essential tools such as antivirus solutions, web browsers, and multimedia players including iTunes and WinAmp.

A comprehensive listing of available applications can be found on the All My Apps official website.

How Allmyapps Works

Allmyapps operates directly on your computer as a standalone application. The software allows users to easily browse the available programs and initiate installation with a single click.

The platform automates the download and installation process, eliminating the need to manually download files and navigate through installer wizards potentially bundled with unwanted software like toolbars or bloatware.

While some applications may still present an installer window, Allmyapps streamlines the process considerably. Furthermore, it supports queuing multiple applications for simultaneous download and installation, optimizing user efficiency.

Updates and Notifications

Allmyapps proactively monitors for application updates. It will alert you when updates are available, even for programs that were originally installed on your system prior to utilizing Allmyapps.

A Convenient Solution

Allmyapps is considered a highly effective application, representing one of the most robust desktop app store experiences available for Windows.

Many believe that Microsoft could benefit from developing a similar application and integrating it directly into the Windows operating system.

Compared to the Windows Store included with Windows 8 – which primarily focused on applications for the “Windows 8 interface” (formerly known as Metro) – Allmyapps offers broader utility for typical Windows users.

For a more detailed evaluation, refer to our complete review of Allmyapps.

Chocolatey

Chocolatey provides a streamlined method for installing Windows software using just two words. Consider the convenience of installing VLC simply by entering “cinst vlc” in a Command Prompt and pressing Enter.

This eliminates the need to navigate to a website, find a download, launch an installer, and proceed through a setup wizard – all accomplished with a concise two-word command.

Extensive Package Library

Chocolatey boasts a catalog of over 480 software packages. A wide array of commonly used applications are included, such as VLC, Skype, Adobe Reader, 7-Zip, Paint.NET, Google Chrome, and Firefox.

Notepad++ is also available, alongside many other popular programs. The complete and searchable list of available software can be found on Chocolatey’s Packages page.

Chocolatey functions similarly to apt-get on Windows. Users familiar with apt-get and other package managers will recognize this functionality from Linux distributions like Ubuntu.

While Allmyapps draws inspiration from mobile app stores, Chocolatey’s design is rooted in the principles of Linux package managers and command-line utilities.

There is no doubt that Chocolatey is a powerful tool. With a user-friendly graphical interface and an expanding software library, its potential for widespread adoption is significant.

Getting Started

Interested in utilizing Chocolatey? A comprehensive review detailing the installation process – achievable with a single command – and the installation of your first application, also through a single command, is available.

Intel AppUp

Intel provides its own software distribution platform, known as Intel AppUp, which is often pre-installed on ultrabooks and newer PCs. This platform differs from others listed here by primarily featuring commercial, paid applications.

Despite its focus on paid software, Intel AppUp also includes a selection of free applications for users to explore. The storefront’s design leans towards mobile-style applications, prominently displaying titles like Angry Birds and Fruit Ninja.

While Angry Birds is available for purchase at $5, Fruit Ninja Lite can be downloaded without cost. Nevertheless, traditional desktop software, such as VLC, is also present within the Intel AppUp catalog.

Generally, Allmyapps presents a broader range of applications typically associated with a Windows package manager. A significant emphasis within Allmyapps is placed on providing free software options.

It’s also important to acknowledge Ninite, a highly regarded tool among tech enthusiasts. Ninite enables users to choose from a diverse collection of widely-used programs and download a single file that facilitates their rapid installation.

This streamlined process saves considerable time when setting up preferred software on a newly configured computer. What Windows app store do you find most useful? Share your experiences and preferred programs in the comments below!