In the ever-evolving landscape of software, some applications have managed to stand the test of time, remaining functional and relevant even decades after their initial release. This phenomenon is particularly evident within the Microsoft ecosystem, where legacy applications continue to thrive alongside modern alternatives.
7 Disk Cleanup
It can still help you free up space
Disk Cleanup, a utility introduced in Windows 98, is designed to assist users in reclaiming disk space. While Windows 11 has introduced Storage Sense for automated cleanups, Disk Cleanup remains a manual tool favored by advanced users. It excels at removing system restore points, temporary files, and remnants from outdated Windows Updates—features that Storage Sense does not cover. Users can easily access Disk Cleanup by searching for it in the Start menu.
6 Windows Media Player
Still quite alive
Windows Media Player, which debuted as part of an optional package in Windows 3.0, has evolved into a comprehensive media player over the years. Despite the introduction of modern alternatives, many users still rely on this classic application for tasks such as playing DVDs and organizing music collections. The legacy version remains available in Windows 11, allowing users to enable it by navigating to “Turn Windows features on or off” in the Media Features section.
5 Control Panel
But Microsoft is trying hard to replace it
The Control Panel has been a fundamental component of Windows since its inception in 1985. While Microsoft encourages users to transition to the modern Settings app, the Control Panel still provides access to legacy tools like Backup and Restore and advanced network configurations. Users can easily find it by typing “Control Panel” into the search bar or using the shortcut Win + R and entering “control.”
4 Character Map
In case you need to add some weird characters
Character Map, introduced in Windows 3.1 in 1992, allows users to access every glyph available in their installed fonts. While the modern emoji panel caters to everyday symbols, Character Map remains invaluable for inserting specialized characters, such as mathematical notations or historic scripts. Its interface has retained a nostalgic charm, reminiscent of 90s design, and can be launched by searching for “Character Map” in the Start menu.
3 Notepad
It also has spell check now
Notepad, a staple of Windows since 1983, continues to thrive despite Microsoft’s recent discontinuation of WordPad. This minimalist text editor has received updates, including a new spell check feature, browser-style tabs, and rich formatting options in its Windows 11 iteration. Notably, Notepad predates Windows itself, originating from the Multi-Tool Notepad program included in the MS-DOS update that introduced mouse support.
2 Snipping Tool
The OG tool for taking screenshots
The Snipping Tool, first introduced in Windows Vista in 2007, has evolved significantly over the years. While it briefly transformed into Snip & Sketch in Windows 10, it returned in Windows 11 with enhanced features like screen recording and delayed captures. Its user-friendly design and handy shortcuts make it one of the simplest ways to take screenshots, and recent updates have added OCR-powered text extraction capabilities.
1 WinZip
ZIP files weren’t always easy to open
WinZip, a third-party compression tool that debuted in 1991, remains a popular choice for managing ZIP files. While Microsoft now offers native support for ZIP files, WinZip’s classic interface continues to function seamlessly on Windows 11. The software is still available for purchase, with various pricing options for unlocking additional features, making it a reliable option for users who appreciate its long-standing legacy.
