Double-click Debugger and paste the full path to Notepad++ in quotes, like so:
Before we break Windows, let’s understand why you are doing this.
Even after setting file associations, typing "notepad" into the Command Prompt or Run dialog ( Win+R ) will still open the native app. To completely replace it, you can use the Windows Image File Execution Options (IFEO) registry method.
"Add 'Open with Code' action to Windows Explorer context menu" "Register Code as an editor for supported file types" replace notepad with notepad windows 11
That's it. Windows will instantly revert to using the original Notepad. No reboot required. No files were harmed.
If your Notepad++ version lacks the auto-replace feature:
Settings > Apps > Advanced app settings > App execution aliases the switch for Notepad (notepad.exe) Launch the Original Double-click Debugger and paste the full path to
A pop-up menu will ask how you want to open .txt files. Select from the list.
Microsoft has finally given Notepad a significant facelift. But the question remains:
So go ahead. Take back your text editing workflow. Whether you are writing code, editing configuration files, taking notes, or just scratching out a quick list, there is a perfect Notepad replacement out there waiting for you. All you have to do is choose it, set it as your default, and never look back. "Add 'Open with Code' action to Windows Explorer
If you are missing the modern version with tabs and dark mode, you can reinstall it: Microsoft Store : Open the Microsoft Store and search for "Windows Notepad" install/reinstall Windows Settings Settings > System > Optional features View features , search for , and select How to Revert to the Classic Notepad
How to Fully Replace Notepad with Notepad++ in Windows 11 Windows 11 includes a redesigned version of Notepad. While it features tabs and a dark mode, it still lacks advanced capabilities. Developers, sysadmins, and power users often need a more robust text editor.
Elias clicked the start menu. He didn’t want fancy formatting. He didn’t want rich text. He just wanted to jot down a product key he’d found on a sticky note. He typed .
Double-click and set the value to the full path of your Notepad++ installation (e.g., C:\Program Files\Notepad++\notepad++.exe -notepadStyleCmdline -z ). Click OK .
By following this guide, you have transformed your operating system. The next time a batch script, a development tool, or your own muscle memory types notepad , you will be greeted by syntax highlighting, macros, and tabs.