Guide to Restoring the WordPad Text Editor on Windows 11

Last week, Microsoft unveiled the highly anticipated 2024 feature update for Windows 11, bringing exciting changes to users’ desktops. While the rollout has begun for eligible devices, it may take several weeks or even months to reach the entirety of the user base. This update is set to transform your Windows experience with enhanced AI capabilities, support for Wi-Fi 7, and Sudo for Windows, among other notable upgrades. However, it’s important to address a significant removal: the classic text editor, WordPad.

The Disappearance of WordPad

For many users, the removal of WordPad may go unnoticed at first. If you attempt to search for it via the Start menu, you’ll find it absent from your search results. Should you try to navigate to its original file path, found at “%ProgramFiles%\Windows NT\Accessories\wordpad.exe,”you’ll discover the absence of the application entirely.

The feature update has effectively wiped three crucial WordPad files from the Windows installation, regardless of whether your system was upgraded from an earlier version or freshly installed. These files are:

Wordpad.exe located in C:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories
wordpadfilter.dll also inC:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories
write.exe found in C:\Windows

Alongside these files, there are additional folders corresponding to different languages, which housed various language strings needed for localization.

In response to this removal, Microsoft recommends users utilize Notepad for basic text editing tasks while encouraging the purchase of Microsoft Word, the company’s robust commercial document processor, for richer text functionality. If you’re in search of alternatives, consider installing LibreOffice, which can seamlessly handle formats formerly supported by WordPad. Yet, if you still wish to regain access to WordPad, there is a path forward.

Steps to Restore WordPad on Windows 11

Since the 24H2 update stripped away the WordPad files, restoring it involves retrieving these essential components. Many users may find they no longer have access to these files, as creating backups prior to the update was crucial. Fortunately, several online sources have made these files available once again.

A particularly user-friendly option is found on this website, which offers a zip archive containing all necessary files for WordPad, including multilingual support. To restore WordPad, follow these straightforward steps:

Download the wordpad.zip archive from the website.
Right-click on the zip file and select Extract All.
When prompted, click Extract to proceed.
Run the installer to complete the WordPad setup on your system.

With the installation complete, WordPad should be functional and ready for use. You can uninstall it later through Settings > Apps > Installed apps if you decide it’s no longer needed.

Final Thoughts

Microsoft has not publicly shared the reasons behind WordPad’s removal. However, it’s reasonable to speculate that the company aimed to reallocate development resources to other areas while simultaneously promoting sales of its Office suite. With the launch of Office 2024 coinciding with the Windows 11 version 24H2, this strategy seems clear.

What text editor do you prefer for your rich text editing needs? Was it WordPad, or do you have another favorite? We invite you to share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments below.

Additional Insights

1. Why did Microsoft decide to remove WordPad?

Microsoft has not officially explained the reasoning behind WordPad’s removal, but it is likely part of a strategy to redirect development focus and encourage users to adopt paid products like Microsoft Word.

2. What are some alternatives to WordPad for rich text editing?

Alternatives to WordPad include Microsoft Word, LibreOffice Writer, and other text editing solutions that can handle rich text formats effectively while providing additional features.

3. Is it possible to restore WordPad if I didn’t back up the files?

Yes, you can restore WordPad by downloading it from various online resources that provide the necessary files, such as the one mentioned in this guide.

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