How to Install Classic Paint on Windows 10
Windows 10 has been a phenomenal operating system since its release, with a plethora of features and improvements that make it a joy to use. However, one of the most significant changes that Microsoft made was replacing the classic Paint application with the new Universal Windows Platform (UWP) Paint app. While the new Paint app is modern and feature-rich, many users still yearn for the simplicity and familiarity of the classic Paint application.
The classic Paint application, also known as "mspaint," has been a staple of Windows since its inception. It was a basic yet powerful image editing tool that allowed users to create and edit simple graphics, photos, and other images. Although it may seem rudimentary compared to modern image editing software, classic Paint has a certain charm and ease of use that many users miss.
Fortunately, there are ways to install classic Paint on Windows 10, and in this article, we'll explore a few methods to get this vintage application up and running on your modern operating system.
Method 1: Using the Windows Features Dialog
One of the easiest ways to install classic Paint on Windows 10 is by using the Windows Features dialog. This method involves enabling the "Legacy Windows Features" option, which includes the classic Paint application.
Method 2: Using the Microsoft Store
Another way to install classic Paint on Windows 10 is by using the Microsoft Store. This method involves downloading and installing the "Windows 7" version of Paint from the Microsoft Store.
Method 3: Using a Third-Party Source
If the above methods do not work for you, you can try downloading the classic Paint application from a third-party source. However, be cautious when using third-party sources, as they may bundle malware or other unwanted software.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues while trying to install classic Paint on Windows 10, here are some troubleshooting tips:
Classic Paint vs. Modern Paint: Which One to Use?
Now that you've installed classic Paint on your Windows 10 machine, you may wonder which Paint application to use. Here are some points to consider:
Conclusion
Installing classic Paint on Windows 10 may require a few extra steps, but it's definitely possible. Whether you're a nostalgic user who misses the old Paint application or simply prefers its simplicity, classic Paint can still be a valuable addition to your Windows 10 toolkit.
While Microsoft has discontinued support for classic Paint, it still works on Windows 10, and you can use it alongside the modern Paint app. If you encounter any issues during the installation process, refer to the troubleshooting tips provided above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I install classic Paint on Windows 11? A: Unfortunately, classic Paint may not work on Windows 11, as it's designed for Windows 10.
Q: Is classic Paint still supported by Microsoft? A: No, classic Paint is no longer supported by Microsoft, but it still works on Windows 10.
Q: Can I use classic Paint as my default image editor? A: Yes, you can set classic Paint as your default image editor on Windows 10.
Q: Are there any alternatives to classic Paint? A: Yes, there are several alternatives to classic Paint, including the modern Paint app, GIMP, and Paint.NET.
By following the methods outlined in this article, you should be able to install classic Paint on your Windows 10 machine and enjoy the simplicity and familiarity of this vintage image editing tool.
The classic Microsoft Paint (mspaint.exe) is a staple for quick, simple image edits. While Microsoft has updated the application and sometimes hidden it in favor of "Paint 3D," it is still available on Windows 10. Depending on your system's current state, you can restore it using official settings, the Microsoft Store, or manual workarounds. Method 1: Reinstall via Optional Features (Recommended)
If Paint is missing entirely from your Start menu, it may have been uninstalled during a Windows update. You can reinstall it through the official Windows Settings without downloading third-party files. Open Settings (Windows Key + I). Go to Apps > Optional features. Click Add a feature. Type "Paint" into the search bar. Select Microsoft Paint and click Install.
Once finished, search for "Paint" in your Start menu to launch it. Method 2: Use the Microsoft Store
Microsoft now hosts Paint as a standalone app in the Microsoft Store. This is the official and most secure way to ensure you have the latest stable version of the classic ribbon-UI Paint. Open the Microsoft Store from your taskbar or Start menu. Search for "Paint."
Look for the official app published by Microsoft Corporation. Click Install or Get. Method 3: Disable "Modern Paint" (Registry Tweak)
If launching Paint keeps redirecting you to Paint 3D, you can use a registry edit to force Windows to open the classic version. Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
Navigate to: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets\Paint\Settings.
If the Settings folder doesn't exist, right-click Paint and create a New > Key named "Settings."
Inside "Settings," right-click and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Name it DisableModernPaintBootstrap and ensure its value is set to 0. Method 4: Manual "Classic Paint" Installers install classic paint windows 10
For users who want the specific Windows 7-style Paint without any modern modifications, community-provided installers like those from Win7Games or Winaero are popular options.
Tip: If you install a third-party classic version, you may need to disable App execution aliases to prevent conflicts. Go to Settings > Apps > Advanced app settings > App execution aliases and toggle off the switches for mspaint.exe. Comparison: Classic Paint vs. Alternatives
If you find the classic version too limited, several lightweight alternatives offer a similar "old-school" feel with more features: Paint.NET Advanced layer support and plugins IrfanView Rapid image viewing and batch resizing Krita Digital painting and sketching jpg or .png?
Bringing the Classics Back: How to Get Classic MS Paint on Windows 10
If you've recently updated Windows 10 and found your familiar, no-frills Paint replaced by the more complex Paint 3D, you aren't alone. While Microsoft has pushed newer creative tools, many of us still crave the lightning-fast, simple interface of the original mspaint.exe.
The good news? The classic version is still very much alive—it’s just tucked away or needs a quick "nudge" to become your default again. Here are the three best ways to get your favorite digital canvas back. 1. The Official Way: Checking "Optional Features"
Before downloading anything, check if Windows simply moved Paint to the "optional" bin. This is the safest and most official method. Open Settings: Start > Settings > Apps Manage Optional Features: Optional features Add Paint: Add a feature
and type "Microsoft Paint." If it appears, select it and click
Once finished, restart your PC. You should find it in your Start menu under Windows Accessories 2. The Power User Fix: The Registry Tweak
Sometimes the classic app is actually still on your drive, but Windows 10 is programmed to "bootstrap" or redirect you to Paint 3D whenever you try to open it. You can stop this behavior with a quick Registry edit: , and hit Enter. Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets\Paint\Settings
(If the "Paint" or "Settings" folders aren't there, right-click the parent folder to create them). Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value DisableModernPaintBootstrap and set the value to Restart your PC.
Classic Paint should now open directly instead of redirecting you. 3. The "Legacy" Installer (Third-Party)
If your system version has completely stripped the original files, you can use a standalone installer. Trusted community sites like have archived the original files from older Windows builds.
Get the "Classic Paint for Windows 10" installer from a reputable archive.
and follow the wizard. It will typically install the app as "Paint Classic" to avoid conflicting with the built-in version. Once installed, right-click a file, select Open with > Choose another app , pick the classic Paint, and check "Always use this app" Why go back?
While Paint 3D offers layers and 3D modeling, classic Paint remains the king of
. It opens instantly, uses negligible system resources, and the selection/cropping tools are still more intuitive for quick screenshots and simple edits.
Are you struggling with a specific Windows 10 build version?
Let me know, and I can help you find the right registry path or installer! How to Install the Classic MS Paint App in Windows
If you miss the simplicity of the original Microsoft Paint before it was replaced by more complex versions like Paint 3D, you can still restore the classic experience on Windows 10. While Microsoft deprecated the older version in favor of newer apps, it often remains hidden on your system or can be easily re-enabled through a few different methods.
Here is how you can install or restore classic Paint on your Windows 10 PC. Method 1: Enable via Optional Features
In many versions of Windows 10, classic Paint is still part of the operating system but may not be "active." You can check for it and install it through the official settings:
Open Settings (Win + I) and navigate to Apps > Optional features. Click Add a feature. Type "Microsoft Paint" into the search bar. If it appears, select it and click Install.
Once complete, restart your PC and search for "Paint" in the Start menu. Method 2: Restore Using the Windows Registry
If the app is installed but searching for "Paint" keeps opening the newer "modern" version, you can force Windows to use the classic bootstrap through the Registry Editor. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
Navigate to: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets\Paint\Settings.
Note: If the "Settings" folder doesn't exist, right-click "Paint," select New > Key, and name it "Settings".
Right-click in the right pane and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it DisableModernPaintBootstrap.
Set its value to 1 to disable the modern version, or 0 to re-enable it. Close the editor and restart your computer. Method 3: Download a "Classic Paint" Installer
For users whose systems have completely removed the older files, several reputable third-party sites offer standalone installers that bring back the exact Windows 7-style Paint.
Winaero and MajorGeeks provide trusted versions of the "Classic Paint for Windows 10" installer. How to Install Classic Paint on Windows 10
After downloading and running the setup file, the app will typically appear as "Paint Classic" in your Start menu to avoid conflict with the default version. Method 4: Manage App Execution Aliases
Windows sometimes uses "aliases" to redirect old commands (like mspaint.exe) to the new app. Disabling these can help classic versions run correctly.
While Microsoft has shifted focus toward modern apps like Paint 3D and the updated, layer-supported version of Paint, many users still prefer the lightweight, no-nonsense experience of the original software. If you find the classic app missing from your system, here are the most effective ways to restore it. Method 1: Using Windows Optional Features (Official)
The safest and most straightforward way to get classic Paint back is through the built-in Windows Settings. Since build 18980, Microsoft has categorized Paint as an "Optional Feature".
Open Settings (Win + I) and navigate to Apps > Apps & Features. Click on the Optional features link. Select Add a feature and type "Paint" into the search bar.
Select Microsoft Paint, click Install, and restart your computer if prompted. Method 2: Reinstall via the Microsoft Store
Microsoft now hosts the standard version of Paint as a standalone app in the store, which is the officially supported method for restoration. Open the Microsoft Store via your Start menu. Search for "Paint" in the top search bar. Click Install or Get to begin the download.
Once finished, you can find it by searching for "Paint" in your Start menu. Method 3: Registry Tweak for "Modern Paint" (Advanced)
If the modern interface is forced upon you and you want the older UI back, you can use a registry edit to disable the "modern bootstrap" that launches the new version. Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets\Paint\Settings.
If the folder doesn't exist, right-click and create a new Key named "Settings".
Inside the Settings folder, create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named DisableModernPaintBootstrap and set its value to 1. Setting Classic Paint as Your Default
To ensure all your images open with the classic version automatically: Right-click any image file (like a .jpg or .png). Select Open with > Choose another app.
Select Paint and check the box for "Always use this app to open .jpg files".
For users who still cannot find the app, Microsoft offers an official Paint/Snipping Tool installer directly on their support site.
Are you looking to restore any other legacy Windows tools, like the classic Calculator or Windows Photo Viewer?
To install or restore the classic Microsoft Paint on Windows 10, you can use built-in system tools or the official app store. Although Microsoft previously deprecated Paint, it remains available as an optional feature or a downloadable app. Method 1: Restore via Optional Features (Recommended)
If Paint is missing from your Start menu, it may have been disabled as an "Optional Feature." (Win + I) and navigate to Optional features Add a feature Type "Microsoft Paint" in the search bar. Select it and click
. You may need to restart your PC once the process finishes. Method 2: Reinstall via Microsoft Store
The version of Paint currently maintained by Microsoft is hosted on their official store. Microsoft Store from your Start menu. Search for Ensure the publisher is "Microsoft Corporation." to download the latest version of the classic app. Method 3: Check via Run Command
Before attempting a fresh installation, verify if the application is simply hidden: on your keyboard. mspaint.exe
If the app opens, it is already installed. You can pin it to your taskbar by searching for "Paint" in the Start menu, right-clicking it, and selecting Pin to taskbar Comparison: Classic vs. Newer Versions Classic Paint (mspaint.exe) User Interface Original ribbon UI; simple and fast. Modernized with 3D modeling tools. Availability Optional feature or Store app. Built-in on most Win 10 versions. Primary Use Quick 2D sketches and basic cropping. Creating 3D art and complex layering. Note on Third-Party Installers:
You may find "Classic Paint" installers on community forums or third-party sites that claim to restore the Windows 7-style version. While these can work, Microsoft Support recommends using official methods to avoid security risks. Microsoft Support for opening images?
Bring Back the Classic: How to Install Classic Paint on Windows 10
Are you tired of the modern, streamlined look of Windows 10's Paint app? Do you yearn for the good old days of Windows 7 and XP, when Paint was a simple, yet powerful tool for basic image editing? Look no further! In this post, we'll show you how to install the classic Paint app on Windows 10.
Why Classic Paint?
The classic Paint app, also known as "mspaint," has been a staple of Windows since version 1.0. Its simplicity and ease of use made it a favorite among users for quick edits and creations. However, with the release of Windows 10, Microsoft replaced the classic Paint app with a modern, Universal Windows Platform (UWP) version.
While the new Paint app is more feature-rich and visually appealing, some users miss the nostalgic feel and straightforward interface of the classic version. If you're one of them, you're in luck!
Method 1: Using the Windows Registry
To install classic Paint on Windows 10, you can use a simple registry tweak. Here's how:
regedit, and press Enter.HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\AppCompatFlags\CompatibilityAssistant Persisted and create a new key called Flags.Flags key, create a new DWORD (32-bit) value called Disable WindowsStoreApp and set it to 1.Method 2: Using PowerShell
Alternatively, you can use PowerShell to install classic Paint on Windows 10: Open the Windows Features dialog : Press the
Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_OperatingSystem | ForEach-Object $_.InstallDate = $_.InstallDate.ToString("yyyy-MM-dd") ; Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_Product | Where-Object $_.Name -eq "Microsoft Paint" | ForEach-Object $_.Install(); $_.Uninstall()
Download Classic Paint
If the above methods don't work for you, you can download a pre-compiled version of classic Paint from a trusted source, such as GitHub. However, be cautious when downloading software from third-party websites, and make sure to scan the file for viruses.
Tips and Variations
Conclusion
And that's it! You should now have classic Paint up and running on your Windows 10 machine. Whether you're a nostalgic user or simply prefer the simplicity of the classic app, this guide has helped you bring back the classic Paint experience.
Do you have a favorite feature in classic Paint? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Like and Share
If you found this post helpful, don't forget to like and share it with your friends and family who might appreciate a blast from the past.
Stay Tuned
For more Windows 10 tips, tricks, and guides, stay tuned to our blog!
Title: The Digital Archaeology of Creativity: Installing Classic Paint on Windows 10
Introduction In the rapid cycle of digital evolution, few applications evoke as much nostalgia and quiet utility as Microsoft Paint. For decades, "MS Paint" was the primordial creative womb for millions of users—the first place they drew a stick figure, edited a screenshot, or simply doodled during a dial-up connection. However, with the release of Windows 10, Microsoft introduced a modernized "Paint 3D," pushing the classic application into the background. While progress is inevitable, the instinct to retrieve the original Paint application reveals a critical truth about user experience: simplicity is not a flaw, but a feature. This essay argues that installing the classic Paint app on Windows 10 is not merely an act of retro computing, but a deliberate choice to preserve workflow efficiency, accessibility, and digital heritage.
The Disappearance of a Staple When users upgraded to Windows 10, many were startled to find the familiar icon missing from its usual place. Microsoft announced that Paint was "deprecated," meaning it would no longer receive active development and would eventually be removed in favor of Paint 3D. While Paint 3D offers impressive features like 3D modeling and advanced brushes, it demands higher system resources and a steeper learning curve. For a user who simply needs to crop a screenshot or draw a quick red circle to highlight an error, opening a bulky 3D application is akin to using a firehose to water a houseplant. Microsoft’s decision, though well-intentioned, overlooked the vast population of non-professional users who rely on speed and zero learning time.
The Method: Restoring What Was Never Lost
Fortunately, installing classic Paint on Windows 10 does not require sketchy third-party websites or abandonware archives. Microsoft discreetly kept the classic Paint executable (mspaint.exe) within the Windows system folder even in later versions of Windows 10. The most straightforward method of installation is actually a re-activation. Users can navigate to Settings > Apps > Optional Features > Add a feature, then scroll to find "Paint." Clicking install will restore the legacy program in seconds. Alternatively, for systems that have had it completely removed, one can extract the original mspaint.exe from a trusted Windows 10 ISO file or a backup of an older system. A third, simpler method exists: directly copying the executable from a computer that still has it (located in C:\Windows\System32) via a USB drive. Regardless of the method, the process is lightweight, free, and does not compromise system security—unlike downloading unofficial "classic shell" tools.
Why It Matters: Beyond Mere Sentiment The reinstatement of classic Paint is not about resisting change; it is about respecting use cases. First, accessibility is paramount. Classic Paint has no hidden menus, requires no internet connection, and runs flawlessly on low-end hardware or virtual machines. Second, workflow efficiency is critical in professional environments. IT support staff, educators, and graphic designers often use Paint for rapid annotations because it launches instantly. Third, preservation of digital literacy is a cultural concern. For children or elderly users learning to compute, the complexity of modern software can be intimidating. Classic Paint serves as a safe, forgiving gateway to digital creation.
Counterargument and Rebuttal Critics argue that clinging to classic Paint stifles innovation and prevents users from learning more capable tools. They claim that free alternatives like GIMP or the built-in Snip & Sketch tool are superior. However, this argument fails to account for the principle of least astonishment. Users should not need to watch a tutorial to draw a straight line. Furthermore, classic Paint and Paint 3D can coexist peacefully; installing one does not uninstall the other. Thus, the user is empowered to choose the right tool for the right job, rather than being forced into a one-size-fits-all solution.
Conclusion Installing classic Paint on Windows 10 is a small but significant act of digital agency. It represents a user's right to curate their own computing environment based on function, not fashion. By following the simple steps through the Windows "Optional Features" menu or a secure file transfer, anyone can resurrect this timeless tool. In doing so, we do not reject the future—we simply ensure that the past remains usable. After all, a hammer does not lose its value just because someone invents a nail gun. Classic Paint remains the digital hammer: simple, reliable, and always within reach.
If you want a perfectly clean system with only Classic Paint, you can uninstall Paint 3D.
Via Settings:
Via PowerShell (as Admin):
Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.MSPaint* | Remove-AppxPackage
Wait—careful! The command above removes the new Paint 3D. To remove Paint 3D specifically, use:
Get-AppxPackage *Paint3D* | Remove-AppxPackage
First, a quick reality check. If you simply open the Start Menu and type "Paint," the version that opens is usually the new one. Microsoft hasn't completely deleted the old version yet; they have just hidden it in a system folder. However, if a major update (like the 2023 or 2024 updates) removed it entirely, you’ll need to do a manual install.
Here are the three best ways to get it back.
If you don't want to mess with system files or registry commands, there is a fantastic third-party option: Paint.NET.
While it isn't the literal classic Paint, it is the spiritual successor. It looks like classic Paint but adds layers, transparency, and effects—without the ribbon toolbar clutter. It is free and runs flawlessly on Windows 10.
Microsoft no longer provides a standalone .exe installer for Classic Paint because it is integrated into the OS. However, power users have extracted the files from older versions of Windows 10. Use this method at your own risk—only download from reputable sources.
How to do it safely:
C:\Windows\System32\ (You will need administrator permission).C:\Windows\System32\ and find mspaint.exe.Note: This version may lack modern security updates. It is recommended for offline or air-gapped computers only.
With the release of the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update, Microsoft began phasing out the classic Win32 version of Paint in favor of the modern "Paint 3D." While the classic version was eventually hidden, it remains buried within the system files. If you prefer the lightweight, no-frills interface of the original Paint, you can restore it without downloading third-party software.
If the old Paint is truly gone, you need to download a trusted copy of the original Windows 7/8 era Paint. Warning: Only download system files from reputable sources (like major tech repositories or extracting from your own old backup). Do not download "Paint.exe" from random ad websites.
The Registry Workaround: For advanced users, you can sometimes force the legacy app back by uninstalling the "Paint 3D" or the new "Microsoft Paint" via PowerShell, which causes Windows to revert to the fallback classic version.
Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.MSPaint* | Remove-AppxPackageC:\Windows\System32\ and look for mspaint.exe. Double-click it.Note: This removes the modern app. To get it back later, simply visit the Microsoft Store and search "Paint."
On some recent Windows 10 updates, the file is no longer in System32 as an executable but stored as a resource.
C:\Windows\SystemResources\.mspaint.exe.mun.mspaint.exe file to a folder on your computer (e.g., C:\MyApps\) and run it from there.