Windows 10: 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 su

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MS Paint not working

Hi,



Thank you for writing to Microsoft Community Forums.



We understand the concern as you are unable to use Microsoft Paint on your PC. In order to get clarity and to assist you accordingly, please reply with the answers to the questions below:

• What is the Version and Build of Windows 10 installed on the PC? (Type
  winver in Windows search/Run command)
  
• Are you aware of any changes on the PC prior to this issue?

In this scenario, we would suggest you to check if you are able to launch Microsoft Paint from System32 folder.

1. Press Windows + E key to open
   File/Windows Explorer
   
2. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32
   
3. Double click on mspaint.exe
   
4. If you are able to launch then Pin to Taskbar and
   create a shortcut.

If the issue persists then try these steps.



Step 1: Run DISM & SFC scan

We would also suggest you to run the DISM & SFC Scan tool to check if you are able to launch MS Paint, refer this article:
System File Checker.



Step 2: Reinstall Microsoft Paint app.

1. Press Windows + I key to open
   Settings.
   
2. Click on Apps and select
   Apps & features from left pane.
   
3. Click on Optional features and select
   Microsoft Paint from the list.
   
4. Click on Uninstall. Close
   Settings and restart the PC.
   
5. Now perform step 1 and 2.
   
6. Click on Optional features and click
   Add a feature.
   
7. Check the box beside Microsoft Paint and click on
   Install.

Let us know the results. If the issue persists, we will certainly assist you further.



Aditya Roy

Microsoft Community – Moderator

 

paint and notepad error

If the issue is only with Paint and Notepad apps, you can switch to the classic version of those apps for the time being.

1. Open Settings → Apps.
   
2. Expand “More settings” and click “App execution aliases.”
   
3. Disable the “Notepad” alias by turning off the radio button.
   

(Ref: Restore the Old Notepad in Windows 11)

Similarly, the classic Paint can be restored from the Windows 10 ISO.

 

ms Paint

Hi,

There are several ways to remove MS Paint. Let's try deleting the app from its file location. Follow the steps below:

• Type mspaint.exe in the search bar.
• Right-click on mspaint.exe, and select Open file location.
  
• Press Delete on your keyboard.
  
• Follow the next instructions to remove the program.
  

Let us know if you need anything else. We're here to help.