Once you have successfully installed classic Paint, you will want to set it as the default image editor. By default, Windows 10 opens .jpg and .png files in "Photos" or "Paint 3D." Here is how to restore the classic "Edit with Paint" context menu.
Steps:
Now, when you right-click any image file, you will see "Edit with Classic Paint." install classic paint windows 10
Works even if Paint was removed or never included.
Place the files in correct locations
Create shortcut (optional)
Right-click desktop → New → Shortcut → paste mspaint → name it Paint
Test
Press Win + R, type mspaint, press Enter – classic Paint opens. Once you have successfully installed classic Paint, you
⚠️ You may need TrustedInstaller permissions to write to System32.
Use a tool like TakeOwnershipEx or boot from a WinPE USB if blocked.
If you’ve recently clicked on the Paint icon in Windows 10 and felt a wave of disorientation, you aren't alone. Microsoft has been quietly updating the classic app, and in some versions of Windows 10 (and Windows 11), the beloved old interface has been replaced or hidden. Now, when you right-click any image file, you
The new Paint app isn't bad—it has modern icons and better scaling. But sometimes, you just want the simple, clunky, 1990s-era toolbar that you know by heart. The good news? You can still get the classic Microsoft Paint back on Windows 10.
Here is the step-by-step guide to resurrecting the retro editor.