Here is how you can install or restore classic Paint on your Windows 10 PC.
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 , and press Enter.
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: install classic paint windows 10
Note: If the "Settings" folder doesn't exist, right-click "Paint," select , and name it "Settings".
Once complete, restart your PC and search for "Paint" in the Start menu. Here is how you can install or restore
Open (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 .
After downloading and running the setup file, the app will typically appear as "" in your Start menu to avoid conflict with the default version. Method 4: Manage App Execution Aliases In many versions of Windows 10, classic Paint
Windows sometimes uses "aliases" to redirect old commands (like mspaint.exe ) to the new app. Disabling these can help classic versions run correctly.
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.