Contrary to what the search phrase suggests, the vast majority of Windows 10 users do not need to download MS Paint from an external source. Microsoft initially announced plans to deprecate Paint in 2017, sparking a wave of public nostalgia and outcry. Responding to its loyal user base, Microsoft reversed its decision. Instead of removing the program, the company moved it from its traditional spot in the Start Menu’s “Windows Accessories” folder to the Microsoft Store. For Windows 10, MS Paint is pre-installed but hidden in plain sight. To “download” it usually means to either locate the existing installation or, if it has been manually removed, to reinstall it for free from the official Microsoft Store.

: Features like Image Creator (AI-powered art generation) and Background Removal are now available in updated versions.

Additional information. Published by. Microsoft Corporation. (c) Microsoft Corporation. Last updated date. 3/5/2026. Release date. Microsoft Store How to Uninstall or Reinstall Paint in Windows 10

Open the Start menu, scroll down to the "W" section, and look inside the Windows Accessories folder.

For users who cannot find Paint on their system, the process is simple and safe. First, check the Start Menu under “Windows Accessories” or simply type “Paint” into the search bar. If it is absent, open the Microsoft Store app, search for “Microsoft Paint,” and click “Install.” It is critical to avoid third-party websites offering an “MS Paint download.” These sites often bundle adware, malware, or outdated versions of the software. The only secure source is the official Microsoft Store or the Windows system files themselves.

Paint - Free download and install on Windows - Microsoft Store

: Allows for more complex compositions by organizing elements on separate layers. Troubleshooting Missing Paint If you cannot find the app, it might simply be hidden:

Why does this simple program still matter? MS Paint’s charm lies in its simplicity. For quick tasks—cropping a screenshot, drawing a basic arrow, creating a simple meme, or just doodling for a few minutes—it is faster and less resource-intensive than heavy software. It is often the first drawing tool a child encounters, teaching basic computer-aided design concepts without overwhelming complexity. In the workplace, it remains an unsung hero for annotating images without needing administrative privileges to install new software.