How To Install Windows Photo Viewer: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Install Windows Photo Viewer: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Windows Photo Viewer, a beloved image viewing application, has been a staple in the Windows operating system for years. However, with the release of Windows 10, Microsoft decided to replace it with the Photos app. While the Photos app offers a wider range of features, many users still prefer the simplicity and familiarity of Windows Photo Viewer. If you’re one of those users, this guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to install Windows Photo Viewer on your Windows 10 or 11 computer.

How to Install Windows Photo Viewer on Windows 10

1. Enable Optional Features:

   • Open the Settings app by pressing Windows Key + I.
   • Navigate to Apps > Apps & features > Optional features.
   • Click on "Add a feature" and search for "Windows Photo Viewer."
   • Select the checkbox next to "Windows Photo Viewer" and click "Install."

2. Restart Your Computer:

   • Once the installation is complete, restart your computer to apply the changes.

3. Set Windows Photo Viewer as Default:

   • Open the Settings app again and navigate to Apps > Default apps.
   • Under "Photo viewer," select "Windows Photo Viewer" from the dropdown menu.

How to Install Windows Photo Viewer on Windows 11

1. Download the Windows Photo Viewer Installer:

   • Visit the Microsoft Support website and download the Windows Photo Viewer installer.
   • Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions.

2. Set Windows Photo Viewer as Default:

   • Open the Settings app and navigate to Apps > Default apps.
   • Under "Photo viewer," select "Windows Photo Viewer" from the dropdown menu.

Troubleshooting

1. Windows Photo Viewer Not Appearing:

   • Make sure you have enabled the optional feature as described in the installation steps.
   • Restart your computer and try again.

2. Windows Photo Viewer Not Opening Images:

   • Check if Windows Photo Viewer is set as the default photo viewer in the Settings app.
   • Reset the Photos app by going to Settings > Apps > Apps & features > Photos > Reset.

3. Windows Photo Viewer Not Working Properly:

   • Uninstall Windows Photo Viewer and reinstall it using the steps provided in this guide.
   • Check for any pending Windows updates and install them.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily install Windows Photo Viewer on your Windows 10 or 11 computer. Remember, if you encounter any issues during the installation process, refer to the troubleshooting section for assistance. Now, you can enjoy viewing your images using your preferred photo viewer, Windows Photo Viewer.