Notepad++ is a powerful, free, open-source text editor cherished by developers, writers, and casual users alike for its lightweight design and robust features. If you’re using a Windows PC in 2025, chances are Notepad++ is already a staple in your toolkit, either pre-installed or easily downloadable from its official website (https://notepad-plus-plus.org/) or trusted software repositories.
Notepad++’s versatility in handling code, scripts, and plain text makes it a go-to choice for millions. However, one small annoyance for users is the update prompt that pops up at inconvenient times. Fortunately, Notepad++ offers customizable auto-update settings to make your experience smoother. This guide explains how to configure these settings and choose the best option for your needs.
Understanding the Auto-Update Feature
When you launch Notepad++, it may check for updates and display a window notifying you if a new version is available, asking whether you want to update immediately. While staying updated ensures you have the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches, this prompt can disrupt your workflow, especially if you’re diving into a coding session or editing critical files. Thankfully, Notepad++ allows you to control when it checks for updates, offering three distinct options under the auto-updater settings: Disabled, Enable on Notepad++ startup, and Enable on Notepad++ exit.
How to Configure Auto-Update Settings
Customizing the auto-update behavior is straightforward. Follow these steps to adjust the settings:
- Launch Notepad++: Open the application on your Windows PC.
- Access Preferences: Click on Settings in the menu bar, then select Preferences.
- Navigate to MISC. Tab: In the Preferences window, locate and click on the MISC. category from the list on the left.
- Choose Auto-Updater Option: Under the auto-updater section, select one of the three options:
- Disabled: No automatic update checks.
- Enable on Notepad++ startup: Checks for updates when you open the program.
- Enable on Notepad++ exit: Checks for updates when you close the program.
- Save and Close: Click the Close button to apply your changes.
Exploring the Auto-Updater Options
Each auto-update setting caters to different user preferences and workflows:
Disabled: This option turns off automatic update checks entirely. It’s ideal for users who prefer manual control, such as those working on systems with limited internet access or who want to avoid interruptions altogether. However, you’ll need to check for updates manually via the Notepad++ website to stay current.
Enable on Notepad++ startup: The default setting, this checks for updates when you launch the program. It suits users who want to stay updated but don’t mind the occasional prompt at startup. This is best for those who typically have a stable internet connection and prefer addressing updates before starting work.
Enable on Notepad++ exit: This option checks for updates when you close Notepad++. It’s perfect for users who find startup prompts disruptive and prefer handling updates after finishing their tasks. This setting ensures your workflow remains uninterrupted while still keeping the software up to date.
Who Should Choose Which Setting?
Your choice depends on your workflow and priorities. If you’re a developer or writer who needs immediate access to Notepad++ without interruptions, Enable on Notepad++ exit is likely the best choice, as it defers update checks until you’re done working. If you’re a casual user who wants to ensure the latest features are always available, Enable on Notepad++ startup works well. For those in controlled environments, such as IT professionals managing multiple systems, Disabled offers the flexibility to update manually on your schedule.
Conclusion
Notepad++ remains a cornerstone tool for Windows users in 2025, offering unmatched flexibility for text and code editing. Its customizable auto-update feature ensures you can tailor update checks to fit your workflow, whether you prefer seamless background checks or full manual control. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can configure Notepad++ to check for updates at a time that suits you best, ensuring a smooth and productive experience. Take a moment to adjust these settings today and enjoy a more streamlined Notepad++ experience tailored to your needs.