Windows 11 moved most settings into the Settings app, but Control Panel is still included for older tools such as Programs and Features, Power Options, Sound, and Mail. The fastest way to open it is to click Start, type Control Panel, and press Enter. You can also press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter. Here are all the ways to get there, plus shortcuts to open specific tools directly.
Method 1: Search from the Start menu
- Click Start or press the Windows key.
- Type Control Panel.
- Press Enter or click the result.
Method 2: Use the Run box
- Press Windows + R.
- Type control and press Enter.
Method 3: Use File Explorer
Click the address bar in File Explorer, type Control Panel, and press Enter. Control Panel opens in the same window.
Method 4: Use Terminal or Command Prompt
Type control and press Enter. This is handy when you’re already working at the command line.
Method 5: Pin it for one-click access
- Start or taskbar: search for Control Panel, right-click the result, and choose Pin to Start or Pin to taskbar.
- Desktop icon: go to Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop icon settings, check Control Panel, and select OK.
Open a specific Control Panel tool directly
Type these into the Run box (Windows + R) to skip the main Control Panel window:
- appwiz.cpl: Programs and Features (uninstall classic programs)
- powercfg.cpl: Power Options
- mmsys.cpl: Sound (playback and recording devices)
- ncpa.cpl: Network Connections
- sysdm.cpl: System Properties (computer name, remote settings, performance)
- main.cpl: Mouse Properties
- timedate.cpl: Date and Time
Change how Control Panel looks
Control Panel opens in Category view. Use the View by menu in the top-right corner to switch to Large icons or Small icons and see every tool at once. The search box in the top-right corner finds tools by name.
Troubleshooting
- Some links open the Settings app instead: Microsoft has moved many options to Settings, so Control Panel links like Display or Uninstall a program may redirect there.
- Control Panel won’t open: your organization may block it with a policy. On a personal PC, run
sfc /scannowfrom an administrator Terminal to repair system files.
Frequently asked questions
Is Control Panel going away in Windows 11?
Microsoft has been moving its features into Settings for years, but Control Panel is still part of Windows 11 and is needed for some tasks.
How do I open Control Panel on Windows 10?
Most methods are the same. See how to open Control Panel in Windows 10.
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.