How to Install WordPad in Windows 11 ( 2026 )

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WordPad has been a simple, built-in word processor in Windows for decades, offering rich-text editing (“bold,” “italics,” different fonts, etc.) without the complexity of Microsoft Word.

However, as of Windows 11 version 24H2, Microsoft officially removed WordPad from the operating system — it’s no longer included by default, and there’s no direct download from Microsoft like before.

That means if you recently installed or updated to Windows 11 24H2 (or later), WordPad might not be on your PC. Luckily, there are safe methods to reinstall or restore it so you can continue using this basic text editor.

🛠️ Method 1: Reinstall WordPad as an Optional Features (If Available)

This is the official and safest way if your current build still lists WordPad as an Optional Feature in Windows Settings.

✔️ Steps

  1. Open Settings

    • Click the Start Menu → Settings (gear icon).

  2. Go to Apps

    • In the sidebar, choose Apps.

  3. Open Optional Features

    • Click Optional features.

  4. Add a Feature

    • Click Add a feature at the top.

  5. Search for WordPad

    • In the search box, type WordPad.

    • If it appears in the results, tick the box next to it.

  6. Install

    • Click Install and wait for the process to complete.

  7. Restart (if prompted)

    • Reboot your PC to ensure WordPad is fully added.

👉 After installation, you should be able to find WordPad via the Start menu.
If this option doesn’t appear, proceed to the alternative methods below.

🖥️ Method 2: Manually Restore WordPad from Another PC

If WordPad isn’t listed as an optional feature (common with Windows 11 24H2 and newer), you can copy the original WordPad program files from another PC that still has WordPad installed.

✔️ What You’ll Need

  • Another PC running Windows 10 or an older Windows 11 version with WordPad.

  • USB flash drive or external storage to transfer files.

  • Administrator access on the PC where you want to install WordPad.

🔧 Steps

  1. Open File Explorer on the Source PC

    • Navigate to:
      C:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories

  2. Copy These Files

    • wordpad.exe

    • WordpadFilter.dll

    • Folder: en-US (contains wordpad.exe.mui)

  3. Transfer Files

    • Copy all three to your USB drive.

  4. Paste to Target PC

    • On your Windows 11 PC (no WordPad), go to the same directory:
      C:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories

    • Paste the files in the same structure.

  5. Run WordPad

    • Double-click wordpad.exe to launch it.

    • Optional: create a desktop shortcut or pin to the Start menu/taskbar.

  6. Optional: Set Default App

    • Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps.

    • Set WordPad to open .rtf rich-text files.

⚠️ Important: Make sure the source PC is trustworthy — copying system files from unknown sources can be risky.

📥 Method 3: Use a Third-Party WordPad Installer

Several third-party sites (like Winaero) offer an installer that behaves like the classic WordPad setup.

✔️ How it Works

  • You download a WordPad installer package.

  • Run the installer like any other program.

  • The classic WordPad experience gets restored.

This is not official Microsoft software, so only use reputable installer sources. Begin by verifying file safety (antivirus scan) before installing.

🆚 Alternative Options If WordPad Can’t Be Installed

If you can’t restore WordPad, here are practical alternatives:

💡 Use Notepad (Enhanced in Windows 11)

Windows Notepad now supports basic formatting and features that reduce the gap with WordPad.

💬 Install a Free Rich-Text Editor

Consider apps like:

  • Notepad++

  • Jarte

  • LibreOffice Writer
    These tools support rich text and are free to download.

🧠 Tips for WordPad Users

✅ Backup Your Files: If you have important .rtf documents you created in WordPad, keep backups.
✅ Avoid Untrusted Downloads: Only use reliable sources for installers.
✅ Set File Defaults: After reinstalling, set WordPad as default for .rtf files.
(Settings → Apps → Default apps → choose WordPad)

🧾 Conclusion

WordPad’s removal from Windows 11 rebooted how users install it — but you can still add, restore, or reinstall it using the steps above:
✔ Using Optional Features (most official),
✔ Copying files from an older Windows install,
✔ Using a reputable third-party installer.

These methods keep WordPad usable on your Windows 11 system even after Microsoft’s deprecation.

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