Mastering Programs and Features: Accessing Windows' Classic Tool

Ah, the elusive Programs and Features tool—Windows’ veteran utility for managing your installed programs and system updates. Nostalgic yet functional, this little gem survives amidst Windows’ relentless push to modernize with interfaces like the Settings app. But let’s face it, sometimes the old-school tools just get the job done better.
If you’re running Windows 10 or 11, you’ve likely stumbled upon this tool (or scrolled past it frantically while troubleshooting something). In this guide, I’ll walk you through the three classic ways to fire up Programs and Features and explain why accessing it might be your ticket to solving common headaches like uninstalling stubborn programs, disabling Windows features, or removing legacy updates.

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Why Use the Programs and Features Tool?​

Before diving into the how, let’s quickly explore the why. What makes Programs and Features indispensable? Here's what this tool lets you do:

• Uninstall Programs: Easily remove pesky software cluttering your system. While the Settings app offers a similar feature, Programs and Features often allows finer control when it comes to uninstalling updates or system components.
• View Installed Updates: Sometimes an update causes issues or conflicts. This tool lists all the updates you've applied, allowing you to pinpoint rogue patches or drivers.
• Turn Windows Features On or Off: Want to enable .NET Framework 3.5 or deactivate unnecessary legacy Windows features? This is the place to do it.
• Reinstall Software (Advanced): For some programs, this is where you can repair or modify installations.

Now that this swiss-army knife of Windows utilities deserves its time in the spotlight, let’s check out three simple routes to access it.

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1. Launch Through the Run Command (The Formula 1 of Access)​

If you prefer no-nonsense keyboard shortcuts, the Run Command is your fastest route. Imagine it's your personal teleportation system—just two key presses, and boom, you’re there.

Steps:​

• Press Win + R: This opens the Run dialog box.
• Type appwiz.cpl: Yes, that’s the command for accessing Programs and Features—short, sweet, and effective.
• Hit Enter: In seconds, the Programs and Features window should appear.

Bonus Tip: Memorize appwiz.cpl. This magical invocation works not only in the Run dialog but also in the Command Prompt, PowerShell, and Windows Terminal.

Why does it work? Simple. appwiz.cpl is a Control Panel–specific shortcut, and it dives straight into the heart of the matter without needing intermediate clicks.

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2. Command Prompt or Terminal: The Nerdier Option​

For power users and command-line enthusiasts, the Command Prompt (or PowerShell, or Windows Terminal) is like wielding a digital sword. If you're most at home staring into a blinking text-based interface, this method is for you.

Steps:​

• Open Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Terminal:
• Type cmd in the Start menu and hit enter for Command Prompt.
• Alternatively, press Win + X to bring up the Power User Menu, then select Terminal or Command Prompt.
• Type start appwiz.cpl and hit Enter.

Your trusty command window will obediently summon Programs and Features. If you’re a Windows Terminal fan with multiple tabs, this command can execute seamlessly in any tab.

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3. Through the Classic Control Panel: Old-School Cool​

Sometimes, nothing beats a clickable interface. The Control Panel grants you more than just access—it’s a nostalgic reminder of where Windows (and many of its users’ relationships with computers) first started.

Steps:​

• Open the Control Panel:
• Press the Windows key and type "Control Panel," then click the result.
• Adjust Your View (Optional):
• In the top-right corner, switch the Control Panel layout by toggling between View by: Category or View by: Icons.
• Navigate to Programs and Features:
• In Category View, go to Programs > Programs and Features.
• In Icons View, simply locate and click the Programs and Features link.

Though the introduction of the Settings app has stolen some of the thunder here, the Control Panel remains available—and sometimes essential—for certain troubleshooting steps.

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Why Modern Settings Doesn’t Replace Programs and Features​

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: if most of these functions are in the Settings app (under the Apps section), why bother with Programs and Features? Good question, but here’s why:

• More Granularity: Need to repair a program, or modify its components? Many apps still require the Control Panel approach, which offers options not present in the Settings app.
• Legacy Systems: Some enterprise software or older applications still direct users to this window for compatibility reasons.
• Update Management: The Settings app doesn’t give you the same oversight of installed updates, drivers, or optional features like the Control Panel does.
• Uniformity Across Versions: Navigating the Settings app differs slightly between Windows 10 and 11, but Programs and Features remains unchanged across versions.

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Pro Tips to Maximize Efficiency​

• Pin Access Shortcuts: If you frequently use Programs and Features, why not pin it to the taskbar or Start menu for easier access? You can even create a desktop shortcut with the appwiz.cpl command.
• Combine Task Manager: Did you know you can uninstall apps directly from Task Manager under the Startup tab, by right-clicking on startup items? Pair this with the granular controls in Programs and Features for optimal app management.
• Disable Features Safely: When turning features off in the Turn Windows Features On or Off section, ensure you understand what’s being disabled (e.g., Hyper-V, legacy .NET frameworks). A quick web search can clarify their purpose to avoid unintended system changes.

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Summing Up​

While Windows has modernized much of its ecosystem through its sleek Settings panel, there’s an undeniable charm and utility to tools like Programs and Features. Whether you're a power user, a casual tinkerer, or just someone who needs to make an app disappear ASAP, knowing several ways to access this panel ensures you're ready for any system management task.
So what are you waiting for? Flex your newfound knowledge, fire up your choice of command-line wizardry, or dive into the Control Panel and wrest control of those pesky background updates. And don’t forget—you can always share your tips on how Programs and Features saved your (PC’s) life in the comments!

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Source: MakeUseOf https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-open-programs-and-features-tool/