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Notepad Not Opening on Windows 11: How to Enable It

Often, this issue is triggered by corrupt or missing app files

5 min. read

Updated onApril 1, 2024

updated onApril 1, 2024

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Key notes

Notepad is a built-in Windows text editor app that can be used to view, create, and edit text files at any time, similar tonote-taking apps. But some of our readers have recently reported that they encounter Notepad not opening on Windows 11 error, and this is becoming frustrating.

If you have been experiencing similar issues on your Windows 11 PC, do not worry, as we have gathered some potential fixes on how to enable your Notepad application.

Why is Notepad not opening on Windows 11?

Several things will likely trigger the Notepad Not Opening on Windows 11 error. Below are some of the major reasons reported by some users:

Above are some potential reasons for the Notepad not opening on Windows 11 error, as reported by some users. Not to worry, below are some proven fixes for the error.

How can I fix Notepad if it’s not opening in Windows 11?

Before trying any of the advanced solutions provided for this error, you should perform the following checks, as any of them may fix the issue:

Having confirmed the above checks, and you still require further assistance on how to fix Notepad if it’s not opening in Windows 11, you can work your way through any of the steps provided in the next section.

1. Set Notepad as the default text editor app

Once you have set Notepad as the default text editor, you can open any text file with Notepad. If you still have issues with Notepad not opening, move to the next solution.

2. Reset Notepad to default settings

Another effective way to reset Notepad to its default settings is via the Installed apps in Settings. However, make sure you have backed up your registry if you choose to use the registry editor.

3. Run the SFC and DISM Scan

The System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) scans are both Windows utilities that can help to detect or repair corrupted system files and other issues.

In addition, you can automate the above SFC and DISM procedures by simply usingdedicated applications.

4. Open Notepad using its .exe file

Opening Notepad from its executable file is another easy means to get notepad running again. However, ifFile Explorer won’t open, you can explore this guide to fix it.

5. Repair and reset the app

6. Reinstall Notepad

Uninstalling and reinstalling Notepad is one of the most effective ways to get Notepad running again in Windows 11.

And that’s how to fix your Notepad if it’s not opening in Windows 11. You don’t have to use all the fixes provided in this article. Work your way through any of them to know which works best for you.

We also suggest consulting our list of thebest note-taking apps for Windowssuitable for Notepad alternatives.

If you have any questions or suggestions, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

Notepad Not Opening on Windows 11: How to Enable It#

Why is Notepad not opening on Windows 11?#

How can I fix Notepad if it’s not opening in Windows 11?#

1. Set Notepad as the default text editor app#

2. Reset Notepad to default settings#

3. Run the SFC and DISM Scan#

4. Open Notepad using its .exe file#

5. Repair and reset the app#

6. Reinstall Notepad#