How to Uninstall and Reinstall Paint in Windows 11
Uninstalling and reinstalling Microsoft Paint in Windows 11 fixes corrupted files, stubborn crashes, and missing tools in under five minutes. Paint is the built-in drawing and image editing program that comes with your PC.
This quick repair process clears out broken data and puts a fresh version of the app back on your computer so it works right again.
Open Settings , go to Apps Installed apps, find Paint, click the ellipsis (…), and select Uninstall. Then, download the Paint installer from Microsoft’s website and run the downloaded file to reinstall it.
Why Uninstall and Reinstall Paint?
Removing and reinstalling Paint fixes problems when the app fails to work correctly, such as when internal files are damaged. This process gives the software a clean slate, which resolves persistent glitches and restores normal functionality.
Before You Start
Verify that the operating system runs version 22H2 or later before proceeding, because these instructions require a modern build. Type ‘winver’ into the search bar and press Enter to confirm the current operating system build.
Step 1Uninstalling Paint
The built-in Windows Settings app handles the removal process. Completing this step ensures the application deletes entirely, preparing the system for a clean installation.
Open Windows Settings
Click the Start button in the taskbar and select the Settings gear icon, or press the Win+I on your keyboard for a faster shortcut.
Go to Apps
Select Apps from the left sidebar inside the Settings window to manage installed software.
Find Installed Apps
Click on Installed apps to view a complete list of software currently installed on your computer.
Locate Paint
Locate Paint by scrolling through the software inventory, or type "Paint" into the search bar at the top of the "Installed apps" list to filter results instantly.
Start the Uninstall
Click the three dots next to the Paint listing to open a flyout menu, then select 'Uninstall' to clear the program from the system.
Confirm the Uninstall
A prompt appears asking for confirmation before making changes. Review the warning, then click "Uninstall" to let Windows remove the program.
Step 2Reinstalling Paint
Reinstalling built-in system components requires downloading packages directly from Microsoft because the standard app marketplace does not host them.
Go to the Microsoft Download Page
Open a web browser and navigate to the official Microsoft Support page dedicated to reinstalling built-in tools. Searching online for "uninstall reinstall Paint Windows" locates the exact webpage.
- Paint Windows 64-bit (most common)
- Paint Windows 32-bit
Choose the Right Installer
Acquiring the correct installer package is necessary for a successful reinstall.
Helpful Tip: Navigate to Settings > System > About and check the "System type" entry to determine whether the machine runs a 32-bit or 64-bit architecture.
Select the download link matching the system architecture, which saves the installation package to the default Downloads folder.
Run the Installer
Open the Downloads folder once the transfer finishes. Locate the installer file, which typically carries a name like Paint_x64.exe, and double-click it to launch the setup utility.
Follow the Instructions
A setup wizard manages the reinstallation sequence. Advance through the prompts by clicking "Next" or "Install" when prompted, restoring Paint version 11.2309.2007.0 to the machine.
Finish the Installation
Close the setup window after the completion prompt appears. The application now functions normally and remains available via the Start menu.
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Summary
Repairing broken drawing tools involves uninstalling the package through Settings and downloading a fresh installer from Microsoft. Open Settings, navigate to Apps and then Installed apps, locate the program, open the three-dot menu, and select Uninstall.
Is it safe to uninstall Microsoft Paint?
Pre-installed applications like Paint and the Snipping Tool can be removed from the operating system when necessary. This guide covers the complete procedure for stripping out damaged files and restoring the software afterward.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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