An INI file is a plain-text configuration file that stores settings in named sections with key=value pairs. Many apps, games, and scripts on Windows still read INI files. You don’t need special software to create one on Windows 11; Notepad is enough, as long as you save it with the right extension. This guide shows how, explains the format, and covers encoding and common mistakes.
Quick Answer
Open Notepad, type your settings (for example, [General] on one line and Name=Value on the next), then choose File > Save as. Set Save as type to All files (*.*), name the file something like settings.ini, and click Save.
INI File Format Basics
- Sections are names in square brackets:
[Database] - Keys and values go below a section:
Port=5432 - Comments usually start with a semicolon
;(some apps also accept#). - Keys are typically case-insensitive, and there are no nested sections.
Example:
[General]
AppName=Inventory Tool
Version=2.1
[Database]
Server=localhost
Port=5432
Always follow the exact section and key names your app’s documentation specifies.
Method 1: Create an INI File with Notepad
- Press Windows, type Notepad, and open it.
- Type your sections and settings.
- Click File > Save as (or press Ctrl + Shift + S).
- Choose the folder where the app expects the file (often the app’s install or data folder).
- Set Save as type to All files (*.*).
- Enter a name ending in .ini, such as config.ini.
- Pick an Encoding (UTF-8 works for most modern apps) and click Save.
Method 2: Create It from File Explorer
- Turn on extensions: in File Explorer, click View > Show > File name extensions.
- Right-click in the folder and choose New > Text Document.
- Rename it from New Text Document.txt to config.ini and click Yes to confirm.
- Right-click the file, choose Open with > Notepad, add your settings, and save.
Encoding Matters
Some older programs expect ANSI or UTF-16 LE encoding and may misread UTF-8, especially with non-English characters. Windows’ built-in INI functions (used by many classic apps) work best with ANSI or UTF-16. If an app ignores your settings, try saving with a different encoding.
Editing INI Files in Protected Folders
Files in C:\Program Files or C:\Windows require administrator rights to save. Right-click Notepad and choose Run as administrator, then open the file with File > Open (set the filter to All files). Back up the original file before making changes.
Troubleshooting
- File saved as config.ini.txt: you didn’t choose All files. Rename it and remove .txt with extensions visible.
- App ignores the file: check the file location, spelling of sections and keys, and encoding.
- Can’t save changes: the folder needs admin rights, or the app has the file locked; close the app first.
- Want syntax highlighting: free code editors like VS Code or Notepad++ color INI sections and keys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an INI file safe to open?
Yes. It’s plain text and can’t run code by itself. Just be careful when changing settings.
What’s the difference between INI, JSON, and XML?
All store settings, but INI is the simplest: flat sections and key-value pairs. JSON and XML support nested data.
Summary
- Open Notepad and write sections and key=value lines.
- Save as All files (*.*) with a .ini name.
- Choose the right encoding for your app.
- Run Notepad as administrator for protected folders.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.