Windows 10: Notepad no longer opening new versions of same file?

I used to be able to open a notepad file, save it and keep that one open. Then I used to be able to open the file again, so I'd have 2 of the same files open. The 1st would be treated as like the original, saved file and the 2nd would be treated as like a new file but not saved anywhere yet. I can't seem to do that anymore. Please help.

:)

 

Unable to open Notepad or MS Paint

I have a desktop PC with Windows 10. I use both Notepad and MS Paint frequently and they both recently stopped opening. Clicking the taskbar shortcuts to open them doesn't cause them to open; the mouse switches to the "loading" throbber, but reverts back after about a second without opening any windows. The same thing occurs when I locate the *.exe files in the system32 folder. There is no error message or change in state to screenshot.

The following descriptions say "Notepad," but in each case I have tried the steps for both MS Paint and Notepad, and I'm looking for help with both. Based on suggestions from around the internet I have tried:

1. running notepad as an administrator (both from the taskbar shortcut and by locating notepad.exe in the file explorer).
   
2. resetting the cache for the Windows store (using "WSReset.exe") and then running notepad.
   
3. uninstalling and then reinstalling notepad via Settings>Apps and features>Optional features.
   
4. restarting computer
   
5. updating computer and then restarting
   
6. uninstalling notepad, restarting, reinstalling notepad.
   

Windows specifications from Settings>System>About are:

Edition Windows 10 Home
Version 22H2
Installed on ‎1/‎16/‎2023
OS build 19045.2728
Experience Windows Feature Experience Pack 120.2212.4190.0

 

Notepad on Windows 7\

Suggestion would be uninstall then new install on Win7. Maybe an older version would work better? A list, maybe Version 7?
News | Notepad++

 

Saved note in Notepad opens blank

Hi Thistlefur,

There could be a number of factors as to why you are experiencing issues with a file on your computer. One possible cause could be corrupted system files.

I'd like to know more about your concern. Kindly verify if you were able to open the file before after saving it. Is the issue specific to a particular notepad file? Have you made any changes to the computer prior to the issue?

Meanwhile, I suggest that you run the System File Checker and DISM tool to scan for any corrupted system files. Here's how:

1. On the Start menu, type Command Prompt. Right-click the result, and then select
   Run as administrator.
2. Copy or type each command followed by hitting Enter.
   
   dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
   
   sfc /scannow
   
   

You can also restore the previous version of the notepad file. To do this, follow the steps below:

1. Right-click the notepad file and then select Properties.
   
2. Click the Previous Versions tab.
   
3. Under File versions, select a version you would like to restore. Click
   Open to check for the contents. If you're satisfied with the contents of the file, you can click
   Restore. You will be prompted to overwrite the existing file version that you have.

Let us know how it goes and we'll assist you further if needed.