Homebrew is the missing package manager for macOS (and Linux), installing command-line utilities and graphical desktop applications.
Formula Commands
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
brew install <formula> |
Install package |
brew uninstall <formula> |
Remove / uninstall package |
brew upgrade <formula> |
Upgrade single package |
brew list --versions <formula> |
Show installed version(s) |
brew info <formula> |
Inspect dependencies, caveat notes, and homepage |
brew cleanup <formula> |
Remove old cached downloads and versions |
brew edit <formula> |
Open formula definition in default editor |
brew search <text> |
Search formulae and casks |
Global Maintenance
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
brew update |
Download latest Homebrew formula repository updates |
brew upgrade |
Upgrade all outdated formulae and casks |
brew list |
List all installed formulae |
brew outdated |
Display packages that have newer versions |
brew doctor |
Run diagnostic self-check to detect system misconfigurations |
brew cleanup |
Scrub all stale downloads and old formula versions |
Homebrew Cask (GUI Apps)
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
brew install --cask <app> |
Install graphical macOS application (e.g. firefox) |
brew uninstall --cask <app> |
Uninstall desktop application |
brew list --cask |
List installed graphical applications |
brew info --cask <app> |
View application metadata and bundle details |
Homebrew Services
brew services list # List background services
brew services start <service> # Start service and register to launch at login
brew services stop <service> # Stop background service
brew services restart <service># Restart background service