Homebrew

The Missing Package Manager for macOS (and Linux) — install the stuff you need that Apple didn't install.

Category: pkg-mgmtFirst released: 2009Created by: Max HowellLicense: BSD-2-ClausePlatforms: macOS, Linux

Homebrew is the de facto package manager for macOS, simplifying the installation of developer tools, libraries, and applications that Apple doesn't ship with the operating system. Using a straightforward command-line interface with simple commands like brew install, Homebrew fetches, compiles, and installs packages from a community-maintained repository of formulae. It also manages cask installations for GUI applications, fonts, and plugins. Homebrew maintains a clean installation structure under /opt/homebrew (or /usr/local) separate from system directories, ensuring system integrity. With its robust bottle system for pre-compiled binaries, dependency management, and easy package creation through homebrew-core taps, Homebrew has become an essential part of the developer onboarding process on macOS and an increasingly popular option on Linux.

Links

Official Website Documentation GitHub

Key Features

Simple brew install interfaceFormula and cask managementPre-compiled binary bottlesClean, isolated installation pathsCommunity-maintained repositoriesDependency managementService management (brew services)