Windows has your go-to Programs and Features tool for managing installed applications, updates, or other system features. This tool makes uninstalling programs or enabling/disabling a particular feature on your PC simple. Modern Windows settings are similar, but this classic tool is popular for its clarity.
How to Open Windows Programs and Features Tool
In this post, you will learn three ways to walk through Programs and Features, using Windows 10 or 11.
Use the Run Command
The easy way to open Programs and Features is through the Run command dialog box.
- Press Win + R from your keyboard.
- In the dialog box, enter appwiz.cpl.
- Press Enter or click OK button.
This method skips menus and gets you straight to Programs and Features (in seconds), making navigating it easier and faster.
Use Command Prompt or Terminal
If you prefer command-line tools such as Command Prompt, PowerShell, or the Windows Terminal, you can also open Programs and Features using a simple command.
- Open your command-line tool:
- Open Power User Menu → press Win + X → choose Command Prompt, PowerShell or Terminal.
- You can also hit the Windows search bar, enter cmd, and hit Enter.
- Type the command:
- start appwiz.cpl
- Press Enter to open the Programs and Features panel.
This method is useful if you are already working in a command-line environment.
Use the Control Panel
You can visit Programs and Features if you enjoy the classic Control Panel.
- Press the Windows key.
- Type Control Panel in the search bar.
- Choose Control Panel.
- Set the View by option (top-right corner) to either:
- Category: Go to Programs > Programs And Features.
- Icons: Select Programs and Features directly.
This is great if you like to browse visually instead of entering commands.
Alternative: Via Settings App
Even though Programs and Features are still useful, some options are available in the modern-era Settings app.
- To explore these options:
- Open the Settings app (press Win + I).
- Go to Apps > Apps & Features.
Run Command, Command Prompt, and Control Panel are three fast and easy methods to open Programs and Features in Windows. You will find no obstacle as you can choose whatever way of working you prefer, whether using shortcuts, command-line programs, or a conventional interface.
You can also depend on the Settings app for most day-to-day tasks, but it’s good to have access to the classic menu for those advanced operations.