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How to Install OneNote Desktop Version on Windows 11
Question details
The user wants to install the classic desktop version of OneNote on Windows 11 rather than using the default Windows Store application.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- Windows 11
- Scenario
- Installing the classic desktop application via a Microsoft 365 or Office license.
- Observed behavior
- Windows 11 defaults to or heavily promotes the Windows Store version of OneNote, making it difficult for users to access the classic desktop application they prefer.
Ensure you have an active Microsoft 365 subscription or a compatible Office license that includes desktop applications, and that you are logged into the correct Microsoft account.
Install OneNote Desktop via Microsoft 365 Portal
Download and install the full Office suite, which includes the classic OneNote desktop application, directly from your Microsoft account.
By default, Windows 11 includes a Store version of OneNote. To get the classic desktop experience, you need to install it as part of the Microsoft 365 desktop apps package.
Open your web browser and navigate to office.com. Sign in with the Microsoft account associated with your Microsoft 365 or Office license.
Click the 'Install apps' button located in the top right corner of the dashboard, then select 'Microsoft 365 apps' to download the setup file.
Locate the downloaded setup file in your Downloads folder and double-click it to begin installing the Office suite. The classic OneNote desktop app will be installed alongside Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
If the Windows Store version still opens by default when clicking notebooks, go to Windows Settings > Apps > Default apps. Search for 'OneNote' and set the newly installed desktop version as the default for all related file types.
Try WPS Office for a Free, Lightweight Productivity Suite
If you are experiencing ongoing issues with Microsoft 365 installations or licensing, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a complete, lightweight, and free alternative with high compatibility for your daily document needs.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and click the free download button for Windows.
- 2. Install the Suite: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office.
- 3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office to easily open, edit, and save your existing Microsoft Office documents without formatting loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Windows 11 keep opening the Store version of OneNote?
Windows 11 comes pre-installed with the Store version. Unless you manually change your default app settings in Windows to point to the classic desktop app, the system will continue to route OneNote links and files to the pre-installed version.
Can I install OneNote Desktop without a Microsoft 365 subscription?
Yes, Microsoft offers a standalone free download of the classic OneNote desktop app on their official website, independent of a paid Microsoft 365 subscription. You just need a free Microsoft account to sync your notes.
How do I tell the difference between the Desktop and Store versions of OneNote?
The classic Desktop version features a traditional ribbon interface similar to Word and Excel, with tabs like File, Home, and Insert at the top. The Store version typically has a more simplified interface with navigation panels on the left side.
Will my notebooks sync between the Store and Desktop versions?
Yes, as long as you are signed into the exact same Microsoft account on both applications, your notebooks will sync automatically through OneDrive regardless of which version you use.
