If preferred, users can revert to the lightweight legacy Notepad. Settings > Apps > App execution aliases the Notepad alias. : Navigate to Settings > Apps > Installed apps , search for "Notepad," and select to fall back to the system's native 3. Setting Defaults via Windows Settings For a non-invasive approach, update file associations: : Right-click a file, choose Properties next to "Opens with," and select your preferred editor. Summary Comparison Modern Notepad (W11) : Features tabs and AI, but can be slower. Classic Notepad : Offers superior, simple speed.
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\notepad.exe" /v "Debugger" /t REG_SZ /d "\"%ProgramFiles%\Notepad++\notepad++.exe\" -notepadStyleCmdline -z" /f Note: If you installed the 32-bit version, use %ProgramFiles(x86)% Using Internal Notepad++ Settings Launch Notepad++ as an Administrator Preferences File Association from the supported extensions list and move replace notepad with notepad windows 11
If you are missing the modern version with tabs and dark mode, you can reinstall it: Microsoft Store : Open the Microsoft Store and search for "Windows Notepad" install/reinstall Windows Settings Settings > System > Optional features View features , search for , and select How to Revert to the Classic Notepad If preferred, users can revert to the lightweight
By following this guide, you have transformed your operating system. The next time a batch script, a development tool, or your own muscle memory types notepad , you will be greeted by syntax highlighting, macros, and tabs. Setting Defaults via Windows Settings For a non-invasive
"C:\Program Files\Notepad++\notepad++.exe" -notepadStyleCmdline -z Visual Studio Code : During installation from code.visualstudio.com , ensure you check the boxes to
In the end, the new Notepad for Windows 11 was a resounding success. Users praised its modern design, improved performance, and enhanced features. The old Notepad, once a stalwart of the Windows ecosystem, had been replaced by a text editor that was truly fit for the 21st century.
To replace Notepad with Notepad++, you'll need to associate Notepad++ with the file types that Notepad currently handles. Here's how: