How to Find Installed Programs in Windows 11
Finding installed programs in Windows 11 can be done in a few different ways. This guide will show you step-by-step how to locate all the programs on your computer, whether you want to uninstall one, check for updates, or simply see what you have installed. Follow along to learn some easy methods to get this information quickly.
How to Find Installed Programs in Windows 11
In this section, we’ll cover various methods to find all the programs installed on your Windows 11 computer. Whether you’re new to Windows 11 or just need a refresher, these steps will help you navigate your system with ease.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click the Start button on your taskbar.
The Start menu is your main hub for accessing apps and settings on Windows 11. It’s the icon at the bottom-left corner of your screen that looks like four white squares.
Step 2: Go to ‘All Apps’
Click on the ‘All Apps’ button located at the top right of the Start Menu.
This button expands the Start Menu to show a full list of installed applications. You can scroll through this list to see everything that’s installed on your PC.
Step 3: Use the Settings App
Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, then go to ‘Apps’.
This is another way to find installed programs. The Settings app provides more detailed information about each program, such as its size and installation date.
Step 4: Navigate to ‘Installed Apps’
In the Apps section, click on ‘Installed apps’ to see a list of all installed programs.
This section gives you a clear and organized view of all applications, making it easier to manage them.
Step 5: Use File Explorer
Open File Explorer and navigate to C:Program Files and C:Program Files (x86).
These folders store the files for most installed programs. Browsing through these directories can reveal programs that might not appear in the Start Menu or Settings.
After following these steps, you’ll have a comprehensive view of all the programs installed on your Windows 11 computer. This can be helpful for system maintenance, troubleshooting, or just getting familiar with your software.
Tips for Finding Installed Programs in Windows 11
- Use Search: If you know the name of the program, type it into the search bar next to the Start button for quick access.
- Check Control Panel: Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features for an alternative way to view installed software.
- Sort by Size: In the ‘Installed Apps’ section, you can sort programs by size to identify large applications.
- Review Recently Added: The Start Menu has a ‘Recently added’ section that displays programs installed within the last few days.
- Uninstall from Settings: In the ‘Installed Apps’ list, you can click on a program to see the option to uninstall it directly from Settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find recently installed programs in Windows 11?
You can find recently installed programs in the Start Menu under ‘Recently added’. This section shows programs added to your system in the last few days.
Is there a way to list all installed programs using Command Prompt?
Yes, you can use Command Prompt. Open it and type wmic product get name. This command will list all installed programs.
Can I find installed programs using PowerShell?
Yes, open PowerShell and enter Get-ItemProperty HKLM:SoftwareWow6432NodeMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionUninstall* | Select-Object DisplayName. This will list installed programs.
How do I uninstall a program in Windows 11?
Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, find the program you want to uninstall, click on it, and select ‘Uninstall’.
What should I do if a program is not showing up in the list?
Check the C:Program Files and C:Program Files (x86) folders in File Explorer. Sometimes, programs might not appear in the Settings or Start Menu but can be found in these directories.
Summary
- Click the Start button.
- Click on ‘All Apps’.
- Press Windows + I and go to ‘Apps’.
- Click on ‘Installed apps’.
- Use File Explorer and navigate to C:Program Files.
Conclusion
Finding installed programs in Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By using the methods outlined in this guide, you can easily locate and manage all the software on your computer. Whether you’re looking to uninstall old programs, check for updates, or just familiarize yourself with what’s on your system, these steps will make the process straightforward.
If you’re interested in learning more about Windows 11 and its features, there are plenty of resources available online. Keep exploring and experimenting to get the most out of your Windows 11 experience. Don’t hesitate to refer back to this guide whenever you need a refresher on how to find installed programs in Windows 11. Happy computing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.