Notepad++ is a free, open-source text and source-code editor for Windows. It opens files in tabs, highlights the syntax of dozens of programming and markup languages, searches and replaces across whole folders, and can be extended with plugins. Version 8.9.8.1 was published on 24 September 2026.
Who it suits
- Developers and web authors who want a fast editor rather than a full IDE.
- Administrators editing configuration files, logs and scripts.
- Anyone who has outgrown Windows Notepad.
How to get the official version
Notepad++ is Windows-only. Download it from notepad-plus-plus.org/downloads or the project’s GitHub releases page. Each release has installers for x64, 32-bit x86 and ARM64, an x64 MSI, and portable ZIP and 7z packages. Every file on GitHub has a matching .sig signature file, and a signed checksum list is published with each release.
There is no official Notepad++ for macOS, Linux, Android or iPhone.
Cost
Free, under the GNU GPL version 3. There is no paid edition.
Requirements
A Windows PC. Choose the x64 installer for most computers and the ARM64 installer for Windows on Arm devices. The portable ZIP runs without installation.
Safety notes
- In April 2024 the Notepad++ project named notepad.plus as an unofficial copycat site and asked users to report it.
- In May 2026 Don Ho said a macOS port using the Notepad++ name, promoted from notepad-plus-plus-mac.org, was not authorized, endorsed or affiliated with the project (reported by MacRumors). The official project does not make a Mac version.
- In early 2026 the project disclosed that its former shared hosting provider had been compromised in 2025 and that update traffic for some users had been redirected. The project says the updater has verified the installer’s certificate and signature since v8.8.9, with enforcement from v8.9.2, and that the site moved to a new host. If you run an older version, install the current release manually from the official site.
Questions
Is there a Notepad++ for Mac?
No official one. Any Mac app using the name is made by someone else.
Installer or portable?
The installer adds Explorer integration and auto-update. The portable ZIP keeps everything in one folder, which suits USB drives and locked-down PCs.
Can I install it with winget?
Yes: winget install Notepad++.Notepad++.