goenv

What goenv is

goenv manages Go versions on Linux and macOS. It lets developers select a version globally, per project, or through environment-variable overrides. Shim executables in PATH direct Go commands to the selected installation, supporting project-specific version selection and automatic switching. The installation guide says goenv downloads prebuilt Go binaries provided by Google, and new Go versions are added automatically on a daily schedule.

The project identifies v3 as its current stable version and recommends it for new installations. It says v3 is fully backward compatible with v2; the v2 line receives security patches and critical bug fixes, with support ending on or before December 31, 2028. Setup instructions cover Bash and Zsh, including a note for Ubuntu users to edit .bashrc. The README documents Homebrew installation for macOS and Linux, and the installation page covers the ZPlug plugin manager for Zsh. The README also includes guidance for AWS CodeBuild use. goenv is free under the MIT license.

Who it suits

goenv suits developers on Linux or macOS who need different Go versions globally, across projects, or through environment-variable overrides. Its documentation also covers Bash, Zsh, and AWS CodeBuild setups.

Getting started

1. Choose v3, which the project recommends for new installations.
2. Install goenv using Homebrew on macOS or Linux, or use the documented ZPlug route for Zsh.
3. Follow the Bash or Zsh setup instructions; Ubuntu users should edit .bashrc.
4. Select a Go version globally, for a project, or through an environment-variable override.
5. For AWS CodeBuild use, follow the README guidance.

Verdict

goenv offers several ways to select Go versions and documents installation and shell setup for Linux and macOS. The project recommends v3 for new installations and continues limited maintenance for v2 until its stated end date.