How to Get Old Snipping Tool on Windows 11
So, the new Snipping Tool in Windows 11 isn’t cutting it for some folks. Restoring the old version might seem like a Herculean task, but it’s actually just a bit of annoying file juggling. It’s like a digital treasure hunt where you have to ditch the newer version first and then dig through some files to get that beloved screenshot helper back. Honestly, it can be kind of a headache, but hey, better than fumbling through endless menus, right?
Uninstall the New Snipping Tool
First off, you need to kick the newer Snipping Tool to the curb. Simple enough, but Windows doesn’t always make this easy. Go to your trusty Settings app — the one you love to avoid — and find Apps. Then go to Installed apps or Apps & features, depending on your version. Scroll down until you spot “Snipping Tool” and hit Uninstall. If it won’t budge, you may need to get wild and use PowerShell instead. Because, of course, Windows has to make this a bit more complicated.
For those using PowerShell, you can try running this command to remove the app: Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.ScreenSketch* | Remove-AppxPackage. This usually does the trick if the uninstall button plays hard to get.
Find the Old Snipping Tool Files
Next stop, finding the old Snipping Tool files. This is where it gets tricky since Microsoft isn’t exactly rolling out the red carpet for older versions. You’ll probably need to grab a Windows 10 ISO or something similar from a reputable source. Be careful though, lots of sketchy sites are out there trying to lure you into downloading malware disguised as helpful tools. If you can snag the ISO from a safe spot or even get it from a legitimate backup, that’s your best bet.
After snagging the files, you’ll want to extract them using something like 7-Zip or even built-in Windows tools. If you’re really stuck, look for a legacy archive or something from a trusted IT friend. Just be wary, because downloading files from the wrong place could land your computer in hot water.
Copy Files to System32
Got the files? Great! Now it’s time to place them in the C:\Windows\System32 folder. This is where all the magic happens, in terms of essential Windows operations. You’ll likely need admin rights, so right-click on File Explorer and run it as an administrator or open PowerShell with admin access (use Win + X and pick Windows Terminal (Admin)).
Then you can copy the Snipping Tool files directly to System32 using the command: Copy-Item -Path <source_path> -Destination 'C:\Windows\System32' -Force. Just replace <source_path> with where you saved those files.
If Windows throws a fit and won’t let you copy, boot into Safe Mode and try again. To do this, go to Settings > System > Recovery, and navigate through the Advanced startup options. It might sound complicated, but it’s really just Windows being protective of its files.
Create a Shortcut
Now that the old Snipping Tool files are residing in the right place, let’s make access easy. Navigate back to C:\Windows\System32, find SnippingTool.exe, right-click on it, and hit Create shortcut. Since Windows doesn’t let you plant shortcuts directly in System32, put it on your desktop instead. You can always pin it to your Start menu or taskbar afterward. Just right-click and select Pin to taskbar.
Test the Old Snipping Tool
Finally, give it a whirl! Double-click that new shortcut or hit Win + R to open the Run dialog and type SnippingTool.exe. The old familiar interface should pop up. If it doesn’t, maybe run sxstrace.exe to track potential issues, or check Event Viewer logs for clues.
Retrieving the old Snipping Tool isn’t a walk in the park, but it’s definitely doable. Just remember to back everything up before poking around with sensitive system files; tech problems have a knack for multiplying when you least expect it. If this doesn’t work, consider checking out third-party options like ShareX or Greenshot—they can do the job and then some.
Happy hunting, and may your screenshots always look awesome!