How to Download and Install WordPad in Windows 11

WordPad has long been a go-to for Windows users who need a lightweight yet functional text editor. Offering more than Notepad but less complexity than Microsoft Word, it’s perfect for drafting notes, formatting simple documents, or editing text without overwhelming features.

However, WordPad isn’t always pre-installed with Windows 11, particularly after updates like 24H2. If you’re wondering how to download and install WordPad in Windows 11, this guide delivers the latest steps. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newbie, we’ve provided clear, actionable solutions.

What Is WordPad, and Is It Still in Windows 11?

WordPad sits comfortably between Notepad’s simplicity and Microsoft Word’s advanced toolkit. It supports basic formatting—think fonts, bold/italic styles, alignment tweaks, and bullet points—making it a handy option for quick edits or lightweight projects.

For years, it came bundled with Windows, but as of 2025, Microsoft is quietly phasing it out. WordPad is no longer a default app starting with specific Windows 11 builds (notably 24H2). The tech giant seems to be nudging users toward Notepad’s recent upgrades or subscription-based Microsoft 365.

Does this mean WordPad is gone for good? Not quite. You can still manually restore it; this article will show you how. Whether you use it for nostalgia, practicality, or a preference for free tools, WordPad remains a viable choice—if you know where to look.

Before You Begin

To ensure a smooth process, check these essentials:

• A Windows 11 PC (Home, Pro, or Enterprise edition—any will do).
• Administrator access to make system changes.
• An internet connection (optional, depending on your method).
• The latest Windows update is installed. To confirm, head to Settings > Windows Update and click “Check for updates.”

With these in place, you can reinstall WordPad or explore alternatives. Let’s dive into the methods.

Method 1: Enable WordPad via Optional Features

Windows 11 still includes WordPad as an optional feature in many cases, even if it’s not immediately visible. Here’s how to enable it:

• Open Settings by pressing Win + I or searching “Settings” in the Start menu.
• Navigate to Apps > Optional Features. This section lets you tweak add-ons and legacy tools.
• Click Add an optional feature (sometimes labeled “View features”), type “WordPad” in the search bar, and select it when it appears. Hit Install to download and activate it—usually a quick process if you’re online.
• After installation, press Win + S, type “WordPad,” and launch it. Right-click the app and pin it to your Start menu or Taskbar for faster access.

This method is the simplest and most official way to restore WordPad. If it’s missing from the list, don’t worry—try the following approach.

Method 2: Manually Install WordPad Files

If Optional Features doesn’t offer WordPad (common in stripped-down updates), you can manually add it using files from another system. Here’s the process:

1. Locate the WordPad files—primarily wordpad.exe and its folder, typically found in

   C:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories\

   on a PC where it’s installed. If you don’t have another PC, search online for these files, but stick to trusted sources like Microsoft Support to avoid risks.

2. Copy the files to the same directory on your Windows 11 machine. You might need admin rights—right-click the folder, go to Properties > Security, and adjust permissions if prompted.
3. Create a shortcut by right-clicking wordpad.exe and selecting Send to > Desktop (create shortcut). Rename it “WordPad” for clarity.
4. Double-click the shortcut to test it. If it launches, you’re golden! Keep your antivirus running, mainly if you sourced files online, to stay safe from malware.

This workaround isn’t Microsoft-endorsed, so it’s a bit of a DIY fix. Still, it works for tech-savvy users who miss WordPad’s charm.

Troubleshooting Tips

Running into hiccups? Try these fixes:

• Won’t Open? Reinstall via Optional Features or open Command Prompt as Admin and run sfc /scannow to repair system files.
• Not Listed in Optional Features? Ensure Windows is updated or switch to Method 2.
• Slow Performance? Restart your PC to clear glitches, or check Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) for rogue apps hogging resources.

Most issues stem from update quirks or file corruption—nothing a quick tweak can’t solve.

Why Use WordPad in 2025?

With so many alternatives, why bother with WordPad? It’s free, doesn’t demand a subscription (unlike Microsoft 365), and runs offline—a boon for users with spotty internet or older hardware.

WordPad’s strength is its simplicity: there are no bloated menus or steep learning curves. It delivers without fuss for students jotting notes, professionals drafting quick letters, or anyone avoiding cloud-based tools. It’s a refreshing throwback worth preserving in a world of overengineered software.