How To Replace Notepad With Notepad In Windows 11

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If you’re tired of using the outdated and limited Notepad in Windows 11, you may be wondering how to replace it with the more powerful and versatile Notepad++. Fortunately, the process is simple and can be completed in just a few clicks. In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through the steps to replace Notepad with Notepad++ on your Windows 11 computer.
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Step 1: Download Notepad++

The first step is to download Notepad++ from their official website. Simply go to the Notepad++ download page and select the appropriate version for your system. Once the download is complete, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install Notepad++ on your computer.

Step 2: Rename Notepad

To replace Notepad with Notepad++, you’ll need to rename the existing Notepad file. To do this, navigate to the following directory on your computer: C:\Windows\System32. Locate the notepad.exe file and right-click on it. Select “Rename” and change the name to something like notepad_old.exe. This will allow you to keep the original Notepad file in case you need it in the future.

Step 3: Copy Notepad++

Next, navigate to the directory where you installed Notepad++. By default, this will be C:\Program Files\Notepad++. Locate the notepad++.exe file and right-click on it. Select “Copy” and then navigate back to the C:\Windows\System32 directory.

Step 4: Paste Notepad++

Once you’re in the C:\Windows\System32 directory, right-click and select “Paste” to paste the Notepad++ file into the directory. You may be prompted to provide administrator permission to complete the action.

Step 5: Replace Notepad

Now that you have both the old Notepad file and the new Notepad++ file in the same directory, you need to tell Windows to use Notepad++ instead of Notepad. To do this, open the Start menu and type “notepad” into the search bar. Right-click on the Notepad icon that appears and select “Open file location”. This will take you back to the C:\Windows\System32 directory.

Step 6: Create a Shortcut

Once you’re in the C:\Windows\System32 directory, right-click on the notepad++.exe file and select “Create shortcut”. This will create a shortcut to Notepad++ on your desktop.

Step 7: Enjoy Notepad++

Congratulations, you’ve successfully replaced Notepad with Notepad++ on your Windows 11 computer! From now on, whenever you open a text file or type “notepad” into the search bar, Windows will automatically open Notepad++ instead of the old Notepad. Enjoy the many powerful features and customization options that Notepad++ has to offer.

FAQs

  • Can I still use the old Notepad?

    Yes, you can still use the old Notepad by simply opening the notepad_old.exe file in the C:\Windows\System32 directory.

  • Is Notepad++ free?

    Yes, Notepad++ is completely free and open source software.

  • Can I customize the look and feel of Notepad++?

    Yes, Notepad++ offers a wide range of customization options, including themes, font styles, and more.

  • Does Notepad++ support syntax highlighting?

    Yes, Notepad++ supports syntax highlighting for over 50 programming languages.

  • Is Notepad++ compatible with Windows 10?

    Yes, Notepad++ is compatible with Windows 10 and can be installed using the same process outlined in this tutorial.

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