How to Restore the Classic Notepad in Windows 11

Many users accustomed to the classic Notepad interface have noticed significant changes in Windows 11. While the updated version offers new features, it doesn't always meet everyone's needs, and some prefer the familiar simplicity of the original Notepad. Fortunately, there are a few straightforward ways to bring back the classic Notepad to your Windows 11 system. Let’s look at these methods step-by-step.

Method 1: Reinstalling the Old Notepad Using PowerShell

If you’re eager to get the classic Notepad back, PowerShell provides an easy way to do it. This method requires minimal technical skill and is highly effective. Follow these steps:

  1. Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
  2. In the terminal window, enter the following command and press Enter:
winget uninstall "Notepad"

This command will uninstall the current version of Notepad. Afterward, you can download and install the older version from a trusted source, such as the official Microsoft website.

Method 2: Disabling Automatic Updates for Notepad

If the new Notepad version keeps updating automatically, you may want to disable updates to maintain the classic version without future changes. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Open Microsoft Store and go to Settings.
  2. Locate the Automatic Updates option and turn it off.

This will prevent Windows from automatically updating applications, including Notepad, allowing you to retain the classic version indefinitely.

Method 3: Using Alternative Applications

If restoring the original Notepad is challenging or inconvenient, you may consider using third-party applications that closely mimic its functionality. Here are a few options:

  • Notepad2 — This app is very similar to the classic Notepad but includes enhanced features like syntax highlighting.
  • Notepad++ — A more advanced alternative, suitable for both simple note-taking and programming tasks.