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This cheat sheet covers Composer, the PHP dependency manager—not other products that use the name Composer. Use composer install to install a project’s locked dependencies, and composer update when you intend to resolve and record newer versions. The distinction is important: install reproduces the versions in composer.lock, while update changes the selected versions recorded there.
Choose the right Composer command
| Task | Command | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Install the project’s dependencies | composer install |
Installs dependencies into vendor. If composer.lock exists, Composer installs the exact versions recorded in it. |
| Resolve dependencies and update the lock file | composer update |
Finds installable versions allowed by the project’s requirements and writes the selected versions to composer.lock. |
| Update selected packages only | composer update vendor/package |
Targets the named package rather than requesting a full dependency update. |
| Add a dependency | composer require vendor/package |
Adds the requirement to composer.json and installs or updates dependencies. |
| Add a development dependency | composer require --dev vendor/package |
Adds the requirement as a development dependency in composer.json. |
| Remove a dependency | composer remove vendor/package |
Removes the package requirement and updates dependencies. |
These command descriptions follow the official Composer CLI reference. Check composer <command> --help for options available to your installed Composer version.
Install versus update: what changes?
Use install to reproduce the project
Run composer install when setting up an existing project, such as after checking it out from version control. Composer reads composer.json and installs dependencies into vendor. When a lock file is present, it uses the exact versions recorded there; this is why the same project can be installed consistently across environments.
Use update when you want new resolutions
Run composer update when you intentionally want Composer to find newer versions permitted by the constraints in composer.json. Composer records its selections in composer.lock. To limit the update, specify package names, for example composer update vendor/package.
The Tool Desk
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Do not use a full update as a routine substitute for install: it may change many locked versions. For more on Composer’s project workflow, see Basic usage.
Inspect packages and check dependency health
composer show— inspect package information and installed packages.composer outdated— identify installed packages with newer versions available.composer licenses— inspect the licenses associated with dependencies.composer audit— check dependencies for known security advisories.
Run composer <command> --help for command-specific options and output modes.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Create a manifest or start from a package
composer init— create acomposer.jsoninteractively.composer create-project vendor/package— create a project from a package.
Use the package name appropriate to the project; consult the official CLI reference for supported arguments and options.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Composer version constraint examples
Constraints in composer.json specify which package versions Composer may select. Common forms include:
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Form | Example | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Exact version | 1.2.3 |
Request a specific version. |
| Comparison or range | >=1.2 <2.0 |
Express lower and upper bounds. |
| Wildcard | 1.2.* |
Match versions within a wildcard pattern. |
| Tilde | ~1.2 |
Allow a range governed by tilde constraint rules. |
| Caret | ^1.2 |
Allow a range governed by caret constraint rules. |
The examples illustrate notation, not a substitute for the precise boundaries Composer applies. Consult the official version constraints documentation when choosing a constraint, especially for tilde and caret behavior.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

