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How to Fix Windows Fax and Scan Missing in Windows 11

Partner Editor Oct 10, 2026 871 views

Question details

Users are unable to locate the built-in Windows Fax and Scan utility on their Windows 11 systems.

How to Restore Missing Windows Fax and Scan in Windows 11

Product: Windows 11
Device & OS: Windows 11
Scenario: Attempting to use native faxing or scanning functionalities for managing physical documents.
Observed behavior: The Windows Fax and Scan application is missing from the Start menu and does not appear under Print and Document Services.

Before you start

Ensure your computer is connected to the internet, as you will need an active connection to download the missing application via Windows Optional Features.

Solution 1Recommended

Install Windows Fax and Scan via Optional Features

Use the built-in Settings app to add the missing Windows Fax and Scan utility back to your system.

In Windows 11, Microsoft has categorized certain legacy tools as optional features. This means they are not always pre-installed by default, but can be easily downloaded through the system settings.

Open Windows Settings

Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to open the Settings app, or search for 'Settings' in the Start menu.

Navigate to Optional Features

Click on 'Apps' in the left-hand sidebar menu, then select 'Optional features' on the right side.

Add a New Feature

Click on the 'View features' button located right next to the 'Add an optional feature' section.

Search and Install

Type 'Windows Fax and Scan' into the search bar. Check the box next to the application in the results, click 'Next', and then select 'Install'.

Launch the Application

Once the installation completes, press the Windows key, search for 'Windows Fax and Scan', and open the application to begin managing your documents.

Edition Availability: The availability of Windows Fax and Scan may vary depending on your specific edition of Windows 11. If you cannot find it, you may need a third-party alternative.

Solution 2

Use Manufacturer Software or Third-Party Apps

If the built-in utility is unavailable for your OS edition, rely on dedicated software provided by your hardware manufacturer.

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Manage Your Scanned Documents Easily with WPS Office

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1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for Windows 11.
2. Open Scanned Documents: Launch WPS Office and click 'Open' to import the PDFs or images you created with Windows Fax and Scan.
3. Edit and Convert: Use the built-in PDF toolkit to annotate your scans, extract text, or convert them into editable Word documents.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Windows Fax and Scan missing after upgrading to Windows 11?

In Windows 11, Microsoft made certain legacy applications, including Windows Fax and Scan, optional features rather than default applications. This change was implemented to save disk space and streamline the operating system for users who do not need legacy fax or scan capabilities.

Can I use Windows Fax and Scan without a physical scanner?

To scan physical documents into digital files, you must have a physical scanner connected to your computer. For faxing capabilities, you require either a fax modem connected to a standard phone line or access to a network fax server.

Where are my scanned documents saved by default?

By default, Windows Fax and Scan saves your scanned documents in the 'Scanned Documents' folder, which is located inside the standard 'Documents' folder on your Windows 11 user profile.

What should I do if the installation via Optional Features fails?

If the installation fails, ensure your Windows Update service is running and that you have a stable internet connection. Restart your PC, temporarily disable any strict firewall settings, and try adding the feature again from the Settings menu.

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