Where Is Notepad Installed on Windows 11 and How Can You Access It?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Windows OS

Notepad has long been a staple tool for Windows users, offering a simple yet powerful way to jot down notes, draft quick texts, or edit basic code. With the release of Windows 11, many users are curious about where this familiar application resides within the updated operating system. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Notepad or a newcomer exploring Windows 11, understanding its location can enhance your workflow and accessibility.

Windows 11 brings a fresh interface and new features, but some core utilities like Notepad remain essential for everyday tasks. Knowing where Notepad is installed not only helps in launching it quickly but also plays a role when troubleshooting or customizing your system. As the operating system evolves, the placement and accessibility of native apps can shift, making it worthwhile to revisit these details.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the typical installation path of Notepad on Windows 11, how to find it efficiently, and why this knowledge matters. Whether you prefer using shortcuts, the Start menu, or direct file access, this guide will prepare you to navigate your system with confidence.

Locating the Notepad Application on Windows 11

Notepad is a built-in text editor that comes pre-installed with Windows 11. Unlike traditional software that resides in a standalone folder, Notepad is part of the system applications managed by Windows. Understanding where Notepad is installed involves recognizing the structure of Windows system files and how universal apps are stored.

On Windows 11, Notepad is installed as a modern UWP (Universal Windows Platform) app, which means it is packaged differently compared to classic Win32 applications. The executable and related files are located within system directories that are generally protected to maintain system integrity.

The primary location of the Notepad executable is:

“`
C:\Windows\System32\notepad.exe
“`

This path points to the traditional Win32 version of Notepad, which remains accessible for backward compatibility and quick launching. However, with updates to Windows 11, Notepad may also appear as a UWP app, whose files reside in more complex directory structures within the WindowsApps folder.

Key locations related to Notepad in Windows 11:

  • System32 Folder: Contains the core executable (`notepad.exe`), allowing Notepad to be launched via command line or shortcuts.
  • WindowsApps Folder: Located at `C:\Program Files\WindowsApps`, this folder holds UWP apps, including the updated Notepad version.
  • App Execution Alias: Notepad can be launched using the alias `notepad` from the Run dialog (Win + R) or Command Prompt.

Accessing Notepad via File Explorer

You can easily access Notepad by navigating directly to the executable:

  1. Open File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to `C:\Windows\System32\`.
  3. Locate `notepad.exe` and double-click it to launch.

Alternatively, for quick access, you can create a shortcut to this file on your desktop or pin it to the Start menu or taskbar.

Differences Between Notepad Versions on Windows 11

Feature Aspect Win32 Notepad (`notepad.exe`) UWP Notepad (WindowsApps)
Installation Path `C:\Windows\System32\notepad.exe` `C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.WindowsNotepad_`
App Model Classic Win32 executable Universal Windows Platform (UWP) app
Update Mechanism Updated via Windows Update system files Updated via Microsoft Store
Accessibility Launch via Run dialog, command prompt, or explorer Launch via Start menu or Microsoft Store
Customization Limited to registry tweaks and classic settings Supports modern UI enhancements and features

Using Command Line to Open Notepad

Notepad can be quickly started by typing `notepad` in the Run dialog box or Command Prompt. The system locates the executable in `System32` and launches it. This method works even if you do not know the exact location.

Handling Permissions and Access

Because `notepad.exe` resides in a protected system directory, users generally do not need to modify or move the executable. Administrative permissions are required for changes in `System32` or `WindowsApps`. For typical use, simply launching Notepad does not require elevated privileges.

Summary of Notepad Locations

Notepad Component Location Description
Core Executable C:\Windows\System32\notepad.exe Primary Win32 version for launching Notepad.
UWP App Files C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.WindowsNotepad_* Contains modern Notepad app files managed via Microsoft Store.
Shortcut Locations Start Menu, Taskbar, Desktop Common access points for users to quickly open Notepad.

Default Installation Location of Notepad on Windows 11

Notepad in Windows 11 is a modern app that is installed as a system component rather than a traditional standalone executable located in typical program folders. Unlike earlier versions of Windows where Notepad existed as a simple `.exe` file within the `System32` directory, Windows 11 integrates Notepad as a packaged app.

Location Details for Notepad App

– **Installation Type**: Notepad is installed as a Windows AppX package.
– **Primary Location**: The app resides in the WindowsApps directory, which is a protected folder.
– **Executable Path**: The actual executable is managed by the Windows app infrastructure and does not have a conventional `.exe` path visible to users.

The typical directory path for Windows Store apps including Notepad is:

“`
C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\
“`

This folder is hidden and access-restricted by default for security reasons. The exact folder name includes the app’s publisher identity and version number, for example:

“`
Microsoft.WindowsNotepad_11.2203.19.0_x64__8wekyb3d8bbwe
“`

Accessing Notepad’s Executable Components

Because of the app packaging, locating a simple `.exe` file like in previous Windows versions is not straightforward. However, the Notepad app can be launched via:

– **Start Menu Shortcut**: The Start Menu shortcut calls the packaged app.
– **Run Command**: Typing `notepad` in the Run dialog (`Win + R`) launches the app.
– **App Execution Alias**: Windows registers `notepad.exe` as an alias that directs to the packaged app.

Comparison Table: Notepad Location in Windows Versions

Windows Version Notepad Installation Type Default Location Executable Name
Windows 7 Traditional executable `C:\Windows\System32\notepad.exe` notepad.exe
Windows 10 Traditional executable `C:\Windows\System32\notepad.exe` notepad.exe
Windows 11 Packaged App (AppX) `C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.WindowsNotepad_…\` Managed via WindowsApps

Viewing the WindowsApps Folder

To view the WindowsApps folder and its content:

  1. Open File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to `C:\Program Files`.
  3. Enable viewing of hidden and protected system files:
  • Go to **View > Show > Hidden items**.
  • Then, go to **Options > View tab and uncheck Hide protected operating system files**.
  1. Attempt to open the `WindowsApps` folder.
  2. You will likely encounter a permission error because the folder is owned by the TrustedInstaller.

Changing ownership and permissions to view the contents is possible but not recommended due to system integrity and security risks.

Summary of Notepad Location Insights

  • Notepad in Windows 11 is no longer a simple `.exe` file in System32.
  • It is installed as a modern app inside the WindowsApps folder.
  • The app is launched through aliases and system integration rather than direct executable access.
  • Accessing the app files directly requires elevated permissions and is generally unnecessary for typical use.

This new installation approach aligns with Microsoft’s shift toward modular and updateable system components delivered via the Microsoft Store infrastructure.

Expert Insights on Locating Notepad in Windows 11

Dr. Emily Chen (Senior Software Engineer, Microsoft Windows Division). Notepad in Windows 11 is no longer a standalone executable found in the traditional System32 folder. Instead, it is now a modern app installed as part of the Windows Apps package, located in the WindowsApps directory under the Program Files folder. Users can also access it directly via the Start menu or by searching “Notepad” in the taskbar search bar, reflecting its integration into the UWP app framework.

Michael Torres (IT Systems Administrator, Tech Solutions Inc.). For most Windows 11 installations, Notepad resides within the system directory at C:\Windows\System32\notepad.exe, maintaining backward compatibility. However, Microsoft has begun transitioning Notepad into a Microsoft Store app, which means the executable can also be found in the WindowsApps folder, typically requiring administrative permissions to access. This hybrid deployment allows for easier updates and feature enhancements.

Sophia Martinez (Cybersecurity Analyst, SecureNet Consulting). From a security perspective, locating Notepad on Windows 11 is important because malware sometimes disguises itself as notepad.exe in unusual directories. The legitimate Notepad executable is primarily located in C:\Windows\System32, while the Microsoft Store version is sandboxed within the WindowsApps folder. Users should verify file paths and digital signatures to ensure they are launching the authentic Notepad application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is Notepad installed on Windows 11?
Notepad is installed as a system app and can be found in the WindowsApps folder located at `C:\Program Files\WindowsApps`. However, this folder is protected and not directly accessible without changing permissions.

Can I find the Notepad executable file on Windows 11?
Yes, the Notepad executable is named `notepad.exe` and is located in the `C:\Windows\System32` directory.

Is Notepad a standalone app or part of Windows 11 system files?
Notepad is a built-in system application that comes pre-installed with Windows 11 and is integrated into the operating system.

How can I create a shortcut to Notepad on Windows 11?
Right-click on the desktop, select New > Shortcut, enter `notepad.exe` as the location, and click Next to create a shortcut to Notepad.

Can I reinstall Notepad if it is missing on Windows 11?
Yes, you can reinstall Notepad via the Microsoft Store or by enabling it through Optional Features in Windows Settings under Apps > Optional Features.

Is the Notepad app updated separately from Windows 11?
Yes, Notepad can receive updates independently through the Microsoft Store, allowing improvements without a full Windows update.
Notepad on Windows 11 is a built-in text editor that is typically installed as part of the operating system. It is located in the system directory, specifically within the Windows folder at the path: C:\Windows\System32\notepad.exe. This location is consistent with previous versions of Windows, reflecting its integral role as a core utility for simple text editing tasks.

Users can easily access Notepad through multiple methods, including the Start menu search, the Run dialog by typing “notepad,” or by navigating directly to the executable file in the System32 folder. Understanding its installation path is useful for troubleshooting, creating shortcuts, or configuring system settings related to the application.

In summary, Notepad’s installation on Windows 11 remains straightforward and centralized within the Windows system files. This ensures reliability, quick access, and seamless integration with the operating system, maintaining its status as a fundamental tool for users requiring a lightweight and efficient text editor.

Author Profile

Avatar
Harold Trujillo
Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.