How to Use the Command 'choco list' (with Examples)

Chocolatey is a powerful package manager for Windows that facilitates the management of software by automating the installation, upgrading, and configuration of software programs. The choco list command is a versatile tool that allows users to display a list of software packages available or installed via Chocolatey. This command can show packages that are available in the Chocolatey community repository or those already installed on a local machine, among various other functions.

Use Case 1: Display All Available Packages

Code:

choco list

Motivation:
This use case is essential for users who want to explore what software packages are available in the Chocolatey repository. It’s perfect for those who are looking for new applications or utilities that they can install on their system using Chocolatey. By knowing what is available, users can make informed decisions about installing new software.

Explanation:

• choco: This is the command-line interface of Chocolatey.
• list: This option tells Chocolatey to display a comprehensive list of all packages available within the Chocolatey repository.

Example Output:
The command will output a list of all packages, showing something like:

7zip 19.00
adobereader 21.0
dotnet4.6.2 4.6.2.20161117
googlechrome 88.0.4324.182
...

Use Case 2: Display All Locally Installed Packages

Code:

choco list --local-only

Motivation:
Knowing what software packages are already installed can save time and effort, especially when managing multiple installations across several machines. This command helps in auditing local installations and determining if any updates or configuration changes are needed.

Explanation:

• --local-only: This flag restricts the list to display only those packages that are installed locally on the user’s system, excluding any from the Chocolatey community repository.

Example Output:
You might see something like:

7zip 19.00 [Approved]
adobereader 21.0 [Approved]
git 2.30.0
...

Use Case 3: Display a List Including Local Programs

Code:

choco list --include-programs

Motivation:
This command is useful for users who not only want a list of installed Chocolatey packages but also want to include programs installed outside of Chocolatey. It provides a more comprehensive view of all software installed on the computer, which is helpful for full inventory management or compatibility checks.

Explanation:

• --include-programs: This option includes both Chocolatey-installed packages and other programs installed via traditional methods outside the scope of Chocolatey.

Example Output:
The output will list both:

7zip 19.00 [Chocolatey]
Microsoft Office 2019
Adobe Photoshop 2020
...

Use Case 4: Display Only Approved Packages

Code:

choco list --approved-only

Motivation:
Users often prefer to install software that has been vetted to ensure it meets certain quality and security standards. This command highlights packages that have passed Chocolatey’s community review process, adding an extra layer of trust for users concerned about security and reliability.

Explanation:

• --approved-only: This flag filters the list to show only those packages that have been officially approved by Chocolatey’s community or moderators.

Example Output:
The list would be restricted to:

dotnet4.6.2 4.6.2.20161117 [Approved]
notepadplusplus 7.9.5 [Approved]
...

Use Case 5: Specify a Custom Source to Display Packages From

Code:

choco list --source source_url|alias

Motivation:
This use case is relevant for advanced users who manage private or corporate repositories. Users can specify a custom source URL or alias to display packages available from internally hosted repositories, enabling efficient internal software deployment environments.

Explanation:

• --source: This parameter lets you designate a specific URL or alias for a package source, supporting scenarios where custom package sources are utilized.

Example Output:
Depending on the custom source, the output could resemble:

internal-tool 1.0.0
enterprise-app 2.3.1
...

Use Case 6: Provide a Username and Password for Authentication

Code:

choco list --user username --password password

Motivation:
In scenarios where a Chocolatey repository requires authentication due to security policies, this command allows users to log in with their credentials. This ensures that proprietary or sensitive software packages can only be accessed by authorized personnel.

Explanation:

• --user: This option specifies the username required for authentication.
• --password: This provides the corresponding password for the username, ensuring authorized access to restricted repositories.

Example Output:
Upon successful authentication, the command outputs the available packages:

secure-app 5.4.2
confidential-tool 3.3.8
...

Conclusion:

The choco list command encompasses a variety of usage scenarios that aid users in managing and exploring software packages with Chocolatey. Whether displaying available packages or checking for installed software, this command serves as a pivotal tool for both casual users and IT professionals working within diverse Windows environments. Each use case expands Chocolatey’s flexibility, allowing for tailored usage according to user needs.