Wordpad is missing from my computer

Word should be able to open anything you created with Wordpad.

If you want Wordpad back:

If you have access to a computer with any other Windows than W11 24H2,

go to C:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories. Copy the whole folder (it's very small, three files) and paste it in the new machine on a location NOT in the Windows folder. That is because some system updates will re-write the system folders and therefore remove Wordpad again. I have a folder under my profile named Oldies and that's where I keep all these old versions, or when they can't be installed there I keep the installers in that folder.

Options to get those files:

• any Windows version prior to 11 24H2
• a Windows.old folder if you have upgraded from a previous version
• download from https://win7games.com/#wordpad (the website is legit and i use it for old versions of software, in particular games)

Hi, This is Ramesh.

WordPad has been removed from all editions of Windows, starting from Windows 11, version 24H2.

Please see "Features removed in Windows 11, version 24H2" in this Microsoft link:

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats...

The only option to get back WordPad is to copy the binary and the corresponding .mui file from the 23H2 ISO or USB setup disk, but it's not supported or endorsed by Microsoft. These links can help.

https://www.pcworld.com/article/2376881/how-to-...

https://www.elevenforum.com/t/how-to-get-classi...

Standard Disclaimer: There is a link to a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to provide accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

I don't want the more complicated Microsoft 365. I don't need to be able to do more, this is not a laptop for work it is my private personal use laptop, and I don't need all these extra whistles and bells Microsoft keeps forcing on me. I want the simple WordPad version, and I want all my saved documents back. I'm beginning to hate Microsoft with a passion because they keep trying to rule my personal computer usage. This is essentially the same thing that happened with the photos app which is now completely useless to me.

Not to mention greedy. Some of us don't want to pay for a most likely overpriced subscription.

Why do you think that you need to buy some kind of subscription, particularly when Word 365 Online is free for everyone?

Or have you heard of Google Docs?

Or have you heard of Libre Office or MobiOffice or WPS Office?

Have you looked on the internet? Example: Best free word processor of 2025

I found a way to install my wordpad application on my Windows 11! I always retain my old computer when I get a new one. I opened my old laptop which has Windows 10, and still has the Windows Wordpad application on it. I copied it to a flash drive (took a couple minutes, cause I had to hunt for the actual application) put the flash drive in Windows 11.

It automatically tried to change everything to Microsoft word, but I opened the windows program files, created a new folder for Wordpad and moved everything from my flash drive into that folder. And now I have selected the Microsoft Word files to open with Wordpad! Hope this will help you!