Git Bash is a favorite tool for a lot of Windows developers. It lets us enjoy a Unix-like shell without having to leave Windows behind.
The catch is… many of us keep using Git Bash for ages and completely forget to update it. That’s usually when strange, hard-to-track bugs start popping up.
In this article, we’ll walk through how to update Git Bash on Windows the right way—safe, simple, and without messing up your existing environment.
✨ Check your current Git Bash version first
Before updating anything, it’s a good idea to check which version you’re currently using.
Open Git Bash and run this command:
git --version
Note (Jan 2026): The latest Git version is 2.52.
If you’re seeing a much older version (for example, something that’s months or even years behind), it’s a good idea to update right away. Git gets bug fixes and security patches on a regular basis, so staying up to date really matters.
🎯 Updating Git Bash from Git Bash (if the updater is available)
Newer versions of Git for Windows come with a built-in updater.
In Git Bash, run:
git update-git-for-windows
After running the update command, one of two things will happen:
1. A newer version is available
Git Bash will show a message saying something like “Download and install Git” and ask for confirmation.
Type Y, and the update process will start automatically.
2. You’re already on the latest version
Git will let you know that everything is up to date, and there’s nothing else you need to do.
🎰 Keeping Git Bash up to date might feel like a small, boring task—but it can save you from a surprising amount of pain later. Many strange bugs, unexpected behaviors, or security issues come from running an outdated Git version without realizing it.
The good news is that updating Git Bash on Windows is usually quick and safe, especially if you use the built-in updater. Make it a habit to check your Git version every once in a while. Your future self (and your teammates) will thank you.
Sometimes, the best debugging tool is simply… staying up to date.
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