How to install Homebrew on Mac and why you should do it

This tutorial explains how to safely install and uninstall Homebrew, a package manager for macOS, and offers alternatives. It's written for beginners!

What is Homebrew?

Homebrew is a free, open-source package manager that installs developer tools (like Python, Ruby, Node.js) Apple doesn't include. It simplifies installing, updating, and managing these tools via the command line. Think of it as a central hub for all your extra software.

Why Use Homebrew?

Homebrew provides access to numerous command-line tools, streamlining your workflow. Examples include:

• imagemagick: Image format conversion
• archey: Localhost sharing
• hub: Enhanced Git experience
• tldr: Concise command-line examples

Homebrew operates through Terminal commands – simple commands for single-file utilities and more advanced "casks" for multi-directory ones.

Homebrew Installation Requirements:

• Apple Silicon or 64-bit Intel CPU
• macOS Monterey (12) or later
• Bourne-compatible shell (bash or zsh)
• Xcode command-line tools (installation instructions below)

Homebrew Alternatives:

If the command line feels daunting, consider Setapp. This subscription service provides access to hundreds of macOS and iOS tools, including:

• Gitfox: A user-friendly Git client, surpassing Homebrew's hub functionality.
• DevUtils: A comprehensive suite of offline developer tools.

Setapp's search function makes finding the right tool simple, regardless of your technical expertise.

Installing Homebrew:

This uses curl (the easiest method recommended by Homebrew).

Step 1: Install Xcode Command-Line Tools:

1. Open Terminal and run: xcode-select --install
2. Confirm installation in the dialog box.
3. Accept the license agreement.

Step 2: Install Homebrew:

1. Open Terminal and run: /bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"
2. Enter your admin password (hidden for security).
3. Wait for the "Installation successful" message.

Step 3: Disable Analytics (Optional):

To prevent Homebrew from sharing usage data, run: brew analytics off

Step 4: Setting Up Homebrew:

Run brew help in Terminal to explore commands. For example:

• Install a package: brew install 'package name'
• Check for installation issues: brew doctor

Step 5: Updating Homebrew:

Regular updates are crucial:

• Update Homebrew: brew update
• Check for outdated packages: brew outdated
• Update a specific package: brew update 'package name'

Uninstalling Homebrew:

For macOS Big Sur and later: /bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/uninstall.sh)"

For older macOS versions: ruby -e "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/master/uninstall)"

Uninstalling Homebrew Packages:

1. Check dependencies: brew deps 'package name'
2. Uninstall (ignoring dependencies if necessary): brew uninstall --ignore-dependencies 'package name'
3. Uninstall: brew uninstall 'package name'

Cleaning Up Homebrew Clutter:

Homebrew can leave behind old files. brew cleanup -n shows what can be removed. For a thorough cleanup, consider using CleanMyMac X.

Homebrew on Apple Silicon (M1 Macs):

After installing Xcode command-line tools and Homebrew, you'll need to add /opt/homebrew/bin to your $PATH by creating a ~/.zprofile file and adding: echo 'eval "$(/opt/homebrew/bin/brew shellenv)"' >> ~/.zprofile

Setapp: Offers Gitfox and DevUtils, along with a 7-day free trial, then $9.99/month.

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