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Whether you are collaborating on software or managing personal coding projects, having a reliable way to track your work is essential. That is where Git comes in.

Git is a version control system that tracks changes across your files and folders. Think of it like the revision history in modern document editors: if a change breaks your code or you want to revisit an earlier draft, you can revert back to a previous version with ease.

Follow this straightforward guide to download, install, update, and manage Git on Windows.

Step 1: Download the Installer

1. Head to the official Git website.
2. Navigate to the Windows download section and select the 64-bit standalone installer.
3. Choosing the 64-bit version ensures optimal performance and compatibility with modern 64-bit processors.

Step 2: Run the Installation Setup

1. Locate the downloaded installer file (ending with the .exe file extension, which marks it as an executable program on Windows).
2. Double-click the .exe file to launch the setup wizard.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
4. Reboot if prompted: If the installer requests a system restart, go ahead and do it. Restarting allows Windows to properly update environment variables and background services needed for Git to run smoothly.

Step 3: Verify the Installation

To confirm Git installed successfully, check your installed applications list:

1. Open the Windows Start Menu and search for Installed apps (or Add or remove programs).
2. Scroll through the list or use the search bar to find Git.
3. You should see the entry along with its version number.

Alternatively, you can open Command Prompt or PowerShell and run:

Bash

git --version

How to Update Git

Keeping Git up to date ensures you have the latest performance improvements and security patches:

• Simply download the latest 64-bit installer from the official website and run it.
• The installer automatically detects your existing configuration and updates your installation to the newest version.

How to Uninstall Git

If you ever need to remove Git from your system:

1. Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps (or Add or remove programs).
2. Locate Git, click the menu icon (or select the app), and choose Uninstall.
3. If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), enter your administrator credentials to authorize the removal.
4. Follow the uninstaller prompts, then restart your PC to clear any remaining temporary files or cached paths.