How to Restore the Classic Windows 11 Notepad (Notes) Experience
If you’ve found that the new AI-enhanced version of Windows 11’s Notes bloc has lost the simplicity of the classic Notepad you’ve loved for decades, you’re not alone. Many users feel that the modernized, feature-packed iteration has strayed from the straightforward, flat text editor experience they depend on. Fortunately, you can revert to the classic version of Notepad on your Windows 11 PC. Follow these steps to switch back to the traditional interface and enjoy the simple, reliable text editor that’s been a staple on your desktop for years.Steps to Restore the Classic Notepad
- Open Windows Settings:
- Press Win + I to launch the Settings app.
- Navigate to the Apps section (or look for options related to default apps).
- Disable the Modern Notepad Association:
- Within the settings, find the option for application configuration or advanced app settings.
- Locate the setting responsible for how files with the
.txtextension are handled. You’ll need to disable the modern configuration fornotepad.exethat is associated with the new Windows 11 Notes bloc. - This action tells Windows to no longer use the AI-enhanced Notes experience for
.txtfiles.
- Confirm Changes and Close Settings:
- After deactivating the modern execution setting, close the Settings app. This adjustment ensures that the operating system won’t automatically load the enhanced version for your text files.
- Launch the Classic Notepad:
- Press Win + R to open the Run command dialog.
- Type
notepad.exeand press Enter. This should start the old classic text editor that you’re accustomed to.
- Verify Installation via Optional Features (Optional):
- If you want to double-check whether the classic Notepad is installed, go back to Settings.
- Navigate to System > Optional Features and search for “Notes” or “Notepad”.
- Confirm that the classic version is present. If it isn’t, you might have an option to install it from there.
Why Revert to the Classic Notepad?
- Simplicity:
The classic Notepad offers a no-frills environment that’s fast, straightforward, and exceptionally reliable for basic text editing — exactly what many users prefer over complex, feature-laden alternatives. - Familiarity:
For decades, the classic Notepad has been a trusted tool for jotting down notes, coding, and other lightweight tasks. The familiar interface can help avoid the learning curve or distractions induced by additional AI features that aren’t needed for simple text tasks. - Optimized for Productivity:
Removing the extra widgets and modern enhancements can lead to a cleaner, more focused workspace that helps boost productivity, especially if you primarily work with plain text documents.
Final Thoughts
The new Windows 11 Notes block, redesigned with AI-driven features, might not be everyone’s cup of tea—especially if you value the clean simplicity of the classic Notepad. By adjusting your system settings to disable the modern execution for.txt files and relaunching notepad.exe, you can reclaim the old, trusted interface without the added complexities.With this simple tweak, your Windows 11 experience can be tailored to better suit your personal workflow, ensuring that you maintain the efficiency and ease-of-use of a classic tool in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
Source: Microsoft Support (via Ruetir)
Source: Ruetir The Windows 11 notes Bloc has lost its essence because of AI: Thus you can recover the classical version
