WordPad on Windows has been around for as long as most people can remember and has been a staple for users just like Microsoft Paint. Sadly though Microsoft decided to remove it from the operating system and that change is coming into effect right now. So if you're wondering where it's gone that's the reason. But can you get it back?

Takeaways:

  1. Where did WordPad go on Windows?
  2. Can't find WordPad on Windows anymore? Did Microsoft remove it?

How to Fix WordPad Missing on Windows 11 - Get WordPad Back

WordPad has long served as a lightweight text editor on Windows, ideal for users who need basic document editing without the complexity of full-fledged and expensive word processors like Microsoft Word. However, with the release of the Windows 24H2 update, WordPad has been removed from the operating system. While it's not ideal there are a few ways to get it back and some alternatives you can try instead.

Downgrade to Windows 11 23H2

If you prefer to continue using WordPad, rolling back to Windows 11 version 23H2 can restore the application. Keep in mind this will undo any changes introduced in the 24H2 update.

  • Right-click on Start and select Settings.
  • Go to System > Recovery.
  • Look for the Go back option and click it.
  • Select Next, followed by No, thanks when prompted.
  • Continue by clicking Next on the following two screens.
  • Click Go back to the earlier build.
  • Restart your system to revert to version 23H2.

Note: If the rollback feature is unavailable, refer to a dedicated guide on downgrading to Windows 11 version 23H2.

Manually Reinstall WordPad Using Older Windows Files (Not Recommended)

If downgrading isn't feasible, you can restore WordPad by manually transferring files from an older Windows version. Just keep in mind that Windows will keep detecting WordPad and removing it constantly.

  • If downgrading isn't feasible, you can restore WordPad by manually transferring files from an older Windows version. Just keep in mind that Windows will keep detecting WordPad and removing it constantly.

  • Obtain a Windows 11 23H2 ISO or USB from a reliable source such as Internet Archive

  • Mount the ISO by double-clicking it in File Explorer or insert the USB into your PC.

  • Open the C:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories folder on the 23H2 system.

  • Locate wordpad.exe and its corresponding .mui file inside C:\Windows\System32\en-US (or the appropriate language folder).

  • Copy wordpad.exe to C:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories.

  • Place the .mui file into C:\Windows\System32\en-US.

  • Right-click wordpad.exe and select Create shortcut.

  • Move the shortcut to your desktop or pin it to the Start menu.

  • Test WordPad to ensure it launches correctly and can open .rtf files.

Test WordPad to ensure it launches correctly and can open .rtf files.

Use Microsoft 365 Instead (Not Recommended)

Since WordPad has been officially discontinued, Microsoft recommends using Microsoft 365 apps, including Word. But if you're like me and can't stand the idea of paying for 365, I'd switch to an alternative.

  • Open the Start menu and search for Microsoft Word.
  • If not installed, download it from the Microsoft 365 website
  • Alternatively, use the free web version of Word by signing in with a Microsoft account.

To set Word as the default app for .rtf files:

  • Right-click the file and select Open with > Choose another app.
  • Select Word and check Always use this app.

Use Google Docs Instead of WordPad

If you're annoyed at Microsoft's removal of WordPad on Windows and want to protest the change you can use Google Docs. It's a decent tool but you'll still be supporting an evil corporation. But at least it's free, minus the usual data policies.