What to Do if WinGet is Not Recognized On Windows?

WinGet is a Windows Package Manager application that helps you discover, install, upgrade, remove, and configure applications on Windows 11 & 10. It is a command line tool that is used by independent software vendors as it requires no app store listing or anything. A user can install an application using a single command line.

While WinGet finds its utility in almost every device running Windows 11 and 10, many users have shared that the operating system is not recognizing WinGet. The issue has explicitly increased in Windows 11 after users have upgraded their devices from the previous version.

Some believe it is because of the incompatibility between the operating system and the application, while others have found that the issue is much deeper than it appears.

If you are facing similar issues with WinGet on your PC, then this is definitely the post you were looking for. In this post, you may discover what you can do if WinGet is not recognized on Windows. Without further ado, let’s begin!

Ways to Fix WinGet on Windows – Troubleshooting WinGet Not Recognized Error

If you are a WinGet user and cannot use it after upgrading your operating system, there is a possibility that there is an issue with the configuration and device compatibility. Hence, we have a few fixes that may help you out in the situation. Simply follow the steps, and you can use WinGet Windows Package Installer again on your PC.

Fix #1 – Update Your Operating System to Latest Version

To Use WinGet properly, it is advised that your PC is updated with the latest version of Windows 11. If by any chance you are using an older version, simply follow the steps to update it –

Step 1 – Press Windows + I to open the system settings
Step 2 – In System Settings, you will find Windows Updates in the left pane.

Step 3 – Click on Check for Update.

Step 4 – Let the system check for updates.

Step 5 – If any update is available, download and install it immediately.

With an updated operating system, using the Windows Packager Installer is better.

Fix #2 – Check if the Windows Package Installer is Available on the PC

Sometimes, when you have completely wiped the previous data and installed a new copy of Windows, older programs are removed and replaced. You need to check if your PC has WinGet installed or not.

Step 1 – Click on the Windows Files Explorer from the Taskbar
Step 2 – In the file explorer window, use the address bar to navigate to the following path –

%userprofile%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\WindowsApps

Step 3 – Once you have reached the folder, scroll down to check if WinGet.exe is available.

Step 4 – If unavailable, download the latest version of Windows Package Installer. Else move to the next fix.

Fix #3 – Check if the Variable Value & Address is Set Correctly

The variable value allows you to ensure that WinGet runs properly in the environment.

Step 1 – Go to Start Menu and Search – edit the system environment variables.

Step 2 – Choose the option in the start menu and click on it to open.
Step 3 – In the pop-up, click on environment variables.

Step 4 – Open the path in the environment variables and click on edit to set the path to –

%userprofile%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\WindowsApps\

Step 5- Save the made changes and exit the environment variable editor.

Once you are done with the process, simply open the cmd on your PC (as administrator) and try running WinGet.

Fix #4 – Fix & Optimize Your PC for System Errors

Sometimes, unknown system errors related to registries and other configurations cause basic Windows services like WinGet to malfunction. If you use a lot of third-party software from unreliable sources, chances are that your PC’s configuration is a bit messed up.

To resolve this issue and fix the problem, you need a PC optimizer tool that brings your system back to its original working state. Advanced System Optimizer, for instance, is a great way to do so. Here’s how a smart scan by the tool can help you out!

Step 1- Download Advanced System Optimizer using the link below

Step 2 – When the application is installed, run it, and will find the Smart PC Care scan option.

Step 3 – Run the scan. This scan is a 360 analysis of your PC configuration and discovers issues with applications, registries, cache files, etc.

Step 4 – Once the scan is over, you can fix the basic issues with a single click.
Step 5 – Let the entire process finish.

After the scan and Advanced System Optimizer are done with your PC, restart your system, and you are ready. Check the WinGet application using the CMD; you may find the difference!

Fix #5 – Reset Windows

If nothing works out for you, resetting Windows can be a good solution. Sometimes when you have updated a device, as soon as the update is out, there are a few components that you miss out on. Or, as they say, the first lot is never the most stable.

To reset the PC, simply –

Step 1- Press Windows + I to open the System Settings.
Step 2 – In System Settings, Scroll down to find Recovery.

Step 3 – In Recovery, you have the option to Reset Your Device.

Step 4 – On Selecting the reset option, you will be asked if you want to keep your files

Step 5 – Choose your option and follow the instructions on your screen to finish the reset.

This will reinstall all Windows services, including WinGet. The issue related to WinGet not being recognized on Windows should be resolved after a quick reset.

WinGet Gets Refreshed! Start Using it Today

WinGet or Windows Package Installer is an application that simplifies acquiring and installing the latest apps without involving a third-party app store or marketplace. It is a great platform to try applications by independent developers.

Fix the WinGet not recognized on Windows error easily using the fixes shared above, and you may find some fantastic applications that make your experience smoother. Don’t forget to download and use Advanced System Optimizer, as it not only fixes the WinGet error but also helps overall PC optimization.

That brings us to the end of this post. Hope you find it helpful. Thanks for reading. Good Luck!

Dishank Sharma

A creative tech-writer who loves to explore latest tech-trends & convey them to his readers in the simplest way possible. He loves to blend the crispness of technology with a pinch of creativity while curating best practices for the readers. In his free time, he likes to scribble poetry, listen to rap & travel.