Replace Notepad With Notepad Windows 11 Fixed Jun 2026

First, find the full path to notepad++.exe . The default installation path is:

Major Windows 11 feature updates sometimes reset IFEO keys. Keep this guide bookmarked; you may need to re-apply the registry key after a bi-annual update.

Repeat this process for any other extensions you want to route to Notepad++ (e.g., .log , .cfg , .ini , .inf ). Method 2: The Context Menu "Open With" Shortcut

In the "Set a default for a file type or link type" search bar, type .txt and press Enter. Step 4: Select Notepad++ replace notepad with notepad windows 11

The default Windows 11 Notepad application is built for basic, intermittent text editing. Power users quickly run into limitations that require a dedicated tool like Notepad++. Key Advantages of Notepad++

If you want Notepad++ to open even when a system process explicitly calls notepad.exe (such as viewing source files or running command-line scripts), you can use a Registry modification. This redirects all system calls from the default app to Notepad++. Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as Administrator

To undo this change later, navigate to the registry path above using regedit and delete the notepad.exe key. Method 3: Restore the Classic Win32 Notepad First, find the full path to notepad++

Before diving into the how-to, it is worth understanding why so many users are looking to leave the default Notepad behind. The modern Windows 11 Notepad is a very different beast from the one that shipped with Windows 95, XP, or even Windows 10.

The correct method?

You visit the official Notepad++ website to download the installer. Repeat this process for any other extensions you

The first step is to remove the modern, app-store-based version of Notepad.

The beauty of Windows is that you have choices. Whether you upgrade to the incomparable power of Notepad++, restore the simple charm of Legacy Notepad, discover the hidden minimalism of Microsoft Edit, or explore any of the other excellent alternatives available, you can craft a text editing experience that works exactly the way you want it to. The methods in this guide—from the simple Settings change to the Registry redirect—give you complete control over which application launches every time you open a text file.

→ Preferences → Misc. → Check "Enable Notepad++ auto-updater".