Learn how to use Microsoft PowerToys and get the most out of Windows.

Many Windows users are unaware of one of the most powerful and versatile tools Microsoft has created: PowerToys . This free collection of utilities hides a series of features that allow you to customize, optimize, and extend the capabilities of the operating system, all from a centralized interface.

If you've never heard of PowerToys, or if you've just installed it but aren't quite sure what it can do, you've come to the right place. Here you'll find a complete, practical, and detailed guide on how to use each and every one of its features, what you can do with this special tool, and why it's worth installing on any Windows 10 or 11 PC. You can also learn more about PowerToys on our website.

What is Microsoft PowerToys and why should you install it?

PowerToys is an open-source project created by Microsoft developers to provide advanced features to users who want to get the most out of their operating system. The tool includes more than 25 utilities that are not included by default in Windows, but are incredibly useful in everyday use.

Its history dates back to the days of Windows 95 and Windows XP, when rudimentary versions of PowerToys already existed. However, it was in 2019 that Microsoft revived this idea and relaunched it as a modern project initially focused on Windows 10 and, later, on Windows 11.

Although PowerToys is an official software, it doesn't come pre-installed . You need to download and install it manually, but the process is very simple and free. The best part is that it's frequently updated, adding new tools and improvements.

Requirements to install PowerToys

Before you jump into installing this digital Swiss Army knife, make sure your computer meets the minimum requirements:

• Operating system: Windows 11 or Windows 10 version 2004 (19041) or higher.
• Processor: Compatible with x64 or ARM64 architectures.
• Additional software: .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0.x, Microsoft Edge WebView2 and Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable.

All of this can be installed automatically during the PowerToys installation, so you won't have to worry much.

How to install PowerToys step by step

There are several ways to install PowerToys. The easiest is through the Microsoft Store . You can also download it from its official repository on GitHub , choosing the file corresponding to your architecture (x64 or ARM64). For more information on how to install it, I recommend visiting this comprehensive guide.

For more advanced users, you can also install it using WinGet from PowerShell by running this command:

• winget install Microsoft.PowerToys -s winget

Once installed, PowerToys will run in the background every time you start Windows, accessible from the notification area.

How PowerToys Works: One Interface to Control It All

When you open PowerToys, you'll see a panel with a left-hand column listing all the available tools. Selecting any utility will display its specific settings, allowing you to enable, disable, or adjust the keyboard shortcuts associated with each function.

On the "General" tab, you can control global aspects such as background running , automatic startup, and updates . This functionality is complemented by tools that allow you to rename multiple files at once.

Main utilities available in PowerToys

PowerToys contains a long list of tools. Below, we explain the most notable ones in clear and detailed detail.

FancyZones: Organize your windows like a pro

FancyZones lets you divide your desktop into custom zones to better organize your windows. It's very useful if you use multiple applications at the same time.

You can create custom layouts and easily snap windows according to a defined pattern. It's like taking the "Snap Layouts" feature from Windows 11 to the next level. It's activated with the shortcut Windows + Shift + Ñ.

PowerToys Run: The Universal Search Engine for Your PC

With PowerToys Run you can search for files, launch applications, execute commands , search the registry and more, all from a minimalist search bar.

It is activated with Alt + Space and is much faster and more accurate than the traditional Start Menu search.

Text Extractor: Extract text from any image or screen

Text Extractor uses OCR technology to extract text visible on the screen, similar to copying text from a locked image or PDF .

Activate it with Windows + Shift + T , select the area, and the text will be automatically copied to the clipboard . This feature is especially useful for those who need to work with images.

Crop and Lock: Floating Windows to Your Liking

With this tool, you can select part of a window and display it in a floating window that's always visible. Ideal for keeping a chart, chat, or other content in view while working in another application.

There are two shortcuts: Windows + Ctrl + Shift + T for viewer mode and Windows + Ctrl + Shift + R if you want the area to be interactive.

File Explorer Add-ons

Activate features like previewing Markdown, SVG, or PDF files from the browser's side panel. Boost productivity without needing any additional software.

Always On Top: Pin important windows

Pressing Windows + Ctrl + T lets you pin any window to stay on top of others, no matter what applications you're using.

Awake: Prevents the PC from going to sleep

With PowerToys Awake, you can keep your computer powered on without changing the power settings. Ideal for long tasks such as downloads or antivirus scans.

Quick Accent

Does your keyboard lack dedicated keys for accented characters? Quick Accent lets you easily type accented letters. Very useful if you use an English keyboard.

Power Rename

Rename files in batches using regular expressions or custom patterns from the context menu. PowerRename saves time if you need to modify many filenames at once.

Mouse Utilities and Mouse Without Borders

Improvements include cursor location, click tracking, and shared mouse functionality across multiple PCs . If you use more than one computer, you can control them all with a single mouse and keyboard thanks to this latest feature.

Ruler on screen

It allows you to measure distances in pixels anywhere on the screen. Ideal for developers, designers, and anyone who needs graphic precision.

Keyboard Shortcuts Guide

Pressing Windows + Shift + / opens an overlay with available keyboard shortcuts. Perfect for learning unfamiliar combinations or remembering functions.

Record Preview

Safely open .reg files to view their contents before running them. Very useful for developers or support technicians.

“Hosts” file editor

Easily edit the system file that associates domain names with IP addresses. You no longer need to use Notepad as an administrator.

Environment Variables

With this function you can add, modify or delete system variables without needing to access complex settings.

Peek

Quickly view files without opening them. Press Ctrl + Spacebar with a file selected to quickly see its contents.

Workspaces: personalized work areas

One of the latest additions is PowerToys Workspaces , which lets you create pre-configured workspaces. You can save the current state of your desktop with open applications, their positions and sizes, and then relaunch everything with a single click.

Perfect for those who work on recurring projects with multiple programs. You can even pin the workspace to your desktop or taskbar. If you want to learn more about using it efficiently, be sure to check out our article on how to use Microsoft PowerToys.

Microsoft PowerToys has established itself as an essential tool for users who want to work more efficiently in Windows . With its modular approach, intuitive interface, and open-source code, it offers a configurable and constantly evolving experience. Whether you're a developer, designer, or simply a productivity enthusiast, PowerToys has something to make your daily work on your PC easier.