In March 2025, Microsoft decided to roll out new AI features in an updated version of the classic Notepad app. Instead of the basic, no-frills notepad, Windows 11 now automatically includes a Copilot-enabled version that requires you to sign in to your Microsoft 365 account.
If you’re one of the people out there who like their apps how they used to be without any AI additions, you’re not alone. Thankfully, it’s easy to revert Notepad to the classic version you know and love.
Simple Steps to Get Old Notepad Back
Step 1. Check if you have the current or older, classic version of Notepad by opening the app. This is as simple as typing “Notepad” or “Apps: notepad” into your search bar and double-clicking on the app when it appears.
Step 2. If this is the first time you’ve used the AI-augmented version of Notepad, you’ll see a pop-up Window telling you about how Microsoft collects your data. This, and the colorful Copilot logo in the top-right corner, show that you have the new Notepad alternative.
Step 3. Now, close the Notepad app and head to settings. Top tip: While you can search for settings using the Windows taskbar, you can also press the Windows key and “I” simultaneously to instantly open this area.
Step 4. Once you’ve clicked on “Settings” or “Open,” click “Apps” and then click “Advanced app settings.”
Step 5. Look for “App execution aliases” and click here. App execution aliases are different names that can be used to launch the same application. In this instance, you’re turning off this feature so that when you try to get old Notepad back by running its execution file, it doesn’t automatically search for the new Notepad alternative.
Step 6. Scroll down the list of App execution aliases until you find Notepad, then toggle the switch to “Off.”
Step 7. Press the Windows key and “R” together to open a Run window, which is a manual way to open apps and other resources. In the “Open” box, type “notepad.exe.” Press “OK.”
Step 8. You will now see a new window open with the classic, unaltered version of Notepad, meaning you can use it without any of the new AI-powered features.
There’s a “launch” button for the new Notepad alternative, should you change your mind. Or, you can simply work through these steps again and switch the App execution aliases option back to “On” to reverse this process.
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Last updated on 09 January, 2026
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