However, Windows 11 doesn’t make it obvious how to permanently replace the default Notepad. You can’t just delete notepad.exe anymore—Windows File Protection will immediately restore it. You need a clean, safe, and reversible method.

To ensure this fits the Windows 11 design language (Fluent Design, Mica material), the implementation would be visually distinct:

) or Start menu will automatically launch the legacy version located in C:\Windows\System32\notepad.exe Option 2: Replace Notepad with Notepad++ You can force Windows to launch whenever any program calls for the default notepad.exe Registry Redirection (Advanced) Command Prompt as an Administrator.

"C:\Program Files\Notepad++\notepad++.exe" -nosession

You cannot simply overwrite the new Notepad. If you try, Windows will immediately restore it or throw an "access denied" error.

Since Windows 11 doesn't have a "one-click" replacement button, you typically right-click a .txt file, select "Open with," then "Choose another app," and pick Notepad++, making sure to select "Always" .

"C:\Program Files\Notepad++\notepad++.exe" -notepadStyleCmdline -z Visual Studio Code : During installation from code.visualstudio.com , ensure you check the boxes to