Notepad++
About Notepad++
Notepad++ is a free source code editor and Notepad replacement for Windows, created by Don Ho in 2003 and distributed under the GNU General Public License. Built on the Scintilla editing component and written in C++ with the pure Win32 API, it starts quickly and runs light even on older PCs.
It offers syntax highlighting and code folding for many languages, a tabbed interface, split views, regex search and replace, macros and a robust plugin system managed from inside the app. It lacks intelligent completion and debugging, but its speed and Simplified Chinese interface make it a favourite everyday editor.
Key features
- Syntax highlighting and code folding
- Tabbed interface and split view
- Regex find and replace across files
- Macro recording and playback
- Plugin manager
- Lightweight Win32 application
- Interface in dozens of languages
Download via Quark Drive
How to install
“Windows protected your PC”
SmartScreen shows this for apps without a paid signature. Click “More info”, then “Run anyway”.
Antivirus blocks it
Open-source apps are often flagged because they aren’t commercially signed. Check the SHA256 first, then allow it in your antivirus.
Won’t start, or a DLL is missing
Usually a missing runtime. Install Microsoft’s Visual C++ Redistributable (x64) and the .NET Desktop Runtime, then try again.
Check the file
Run this in Command Prompt and compare the result with the SHA256 listed for the cloud file:
certutil -hashfile "%USERPROFILE%\Downloads\file-name" SHA256Alternatives
Visual Studio Code
VSCodium
WinMerge
Changelog
Release notes
FAQ
How do I download Notepad++?
Click “Download via Quark Drive” on this page, then save or download it from the Quark share page.
Is Notepad++ free?
Notepad++ license: GPL-3.0. appwl only lists official builds and charges nothing for downloads.
Which systems does Notepad++ support?
This page offers Notepad++ for Windows, version 8.9.8.1.
Is Notepad++ from appwl safe?
appwl only lists official releases with their version and date. You can verify the SHA256 using the install tips on this page.