Windows 11 24H2 has ushered in a wave of changes, one of which is the removal of the beloved WordPad. For many users, WordPad has been a reliable companion for quick text editing tasks. If you find yourself missing this trusty app, fret not—restoring WordPad in Windows 11 24H2 is a straightforward process.
Steps to Restore WordPad
To bring back WordPad, follow these simple steps:
- Download the backup archive containing WordPad core files from the provided link.
- Extract the contents of the archive.
- Paste the files (en-US folder with wordpad.exe.mui, wordpad.exe, WordpadFilter.dll) into the Accessories folder located in C:\Program Files\Windows NT.
- Run WordPad by double-clicking on the
wordpad.exe file. - Pin WordPad to the Taskbar or add it to the Start menu for easy access.
While WordPad may not receive any updates or support from Microsoft in Windows 11 24H2, you can still enjoy its functionality by restoring it using the backup archive. This method allows you to continue using WordPad for your text editing needs without any major hassle.
Is WordPad Safe to Use in Windows 11 24H2?
Since WordPad is a deprecated app, Microsoft will not provide any updates or bug fixes for it. While you can still use WordPad in Windows 11 24H2 after restoring it, it may encounter compatibility issues and conflicts with other system elements over time. Therefore, it's essential to be aware of potential risks when using an unsupported application.
For a more reliable and supported option, consider switching to a text editor like Microsoft Office or LibreOffice to open RTF files and other documents. These alternatives offer robust features and regular updates, ensuring a smoother experience. WordPad will continue to be available in older versions of Windows, such as Windows 11 23H2 and Windows 10, but it will be removed in the upcoming Windows 11 2024 Update.
In summary, while restoring WordPad in Windows 11 24H2 is possible and relatively easy, users should weigh the pros and cons of using an unsupported application. For those who cherish the simplicity of WordPad, this guide provides a lifeline to keep it alive in the latest Windows environment.
