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With its removal from recent Windows 11 releases, many users are searching for ways to bring back and install WordPad in Windows 11. As of version 24H2, WordPad is no longer included with the operating system and has officially been retired.

However, if you're using an earlier version or can access the necessary files, there are still methods available to restore it. This guide covers all possible approaches—from enabling it on compatible systems to manually retrieving it on updated versions.

Table of contents

• Why WordPad Was Discontinued and Why You Might Still Want It
  • Step-by-Step Guide: How to Restore or Reinstall WordPad in Windows 11
  • Contemporary Alternatives to WordPad
  • Summary: What’s the Most Effective Way to Get WordPad Back?
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Closing Thoughts

Why WordPad Was Removed and Why You Might Still Need It

Microsoft officially retired WordPad starting with Windows 11 24H2. If the app is missing from your PC, it's not due to a glitch—it's intentional. While tools like the upgraded Notepad and cloud-based Word Online now cover basic document editing, many users still value WordPad for its balance between simplicity and formatting functionality.

Reasons you might want to reinstall WordPad:

• You prefer a minimal word processor with basic styling features (like fonts, colors, and alignment)
• You frequently work with .RTF or legacy .DOC files without needing full Microsoft Word
• You're accustomed to its interface and keyboard shortcuts

Step-by-Step Guide: Restore or Reinstall WordPad in Windows 11

Option 1: Enable WordPad on Windows 11 22H2 or Older Builds

If your system runs an earlier version of Windows 11, you can re-enable WordPad through the built-in Windows Features tool.

Instructions:

1. Press Windows R to open the Run dialog box
2. Type optionalfeatures.exe and press Enter
3. In the Windows Features window, scroll down and find WordPad
4. Check the box next to it
5. Click OK to install the component

After installation, simply search for "WordPad" in the Start menu to open it.

?? Important: This method only works on Windows 11 versions prior to 24H2. It will not function on 24H2 or later builds.

Option 2: Manually Restore WordPad Using Files from Another Device

For users on newer Windows 11 versions where WordPad is completely absent, you can attempt to restore it by copying the required files from a compatible machine.

Steps:

1. On a computer running Windows 10 or Windows 11 22H2 and below, navigate to:

   • C:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories\wordpad.exe
   • C:\Windows\System32\en-US\wordpad.exe.mui (language resource file)

2. Copy these files to the same directories on your current PC

3. Administrative rights are required to paste into system folders

4. Create a shortcut to wordpad.exe on your desktop for quick access

? Note: This is an unofficial method. Compatibility isn’t guaranteed, and future Windows updates may disable or remove the copied files.

Modern Alternatives to WordPad

If restoring WordPad isn’t feasible or permitted in your environment, consider these reliable, free alternatives.

Notepad (New Enhanced Version)

The updated Notepad in Windows 11 now includes several advanced capabilities:

• Support for rich text formatting
• Built-in spell check
• Auto-save and session restore features

It now handles many tasks previously done in WordPad.

Word Online (Free Web-Based Editor)

For more robust formatting, use Word Online:

• Accessible via any web browser
• Requires only a free Microsoft account
• Allows creation, editing, and cloud storage of documents

LibreOffice Writer

For a full-featured offline alternative, try LibreOffice Writer:

• Free download from libreoffice.org
• Supports DOC, DOCX, RTF, and many other formats
• Includes advanced formatting, templates, and printing options

Summary: What’s the Best Way to Restore WordPad?

FAQs

Why did Microsoft remove WordPad?
Microsoft removed WordPad in 24H2 to streamline the OS and promote lighter tools like Notepad and cloud solutions such as Word Online.

Is it safe to copy WordPad from another PC?
Yes, provided you own both devices. However, this method is unsupported and may break after system updates.

Will manually installed WordPad survive future updates?
Possibly, but there's no guarantee. Microsoft may block or delete the files during an update.

Are there security risks in using a copied version?
The risk is low, but since it won’t receive updates, it could become incompatible or unstable over time.

Can I download WordPad from the Microsoft Store?
No. WordPad is not available as a standalone app in the Store and won’t be offered there in the future.

Final Thoughts

Looking for how to restore and install WordPad in Windows 11? Your best option depends on your OS version. On older builds, enabling it through Windows Features is simple and reliable. On newer ones, manual restoration is possible but risky. That said, modern replacements like the updated Notepad, Word Online, or LibreOffice Writer provide better long-term support, enhanced features, and regular updates—making them strong contenders for replacing WordPad in everyday use.

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