How to Create an INI File in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 24, 2025

Have you ever tried to configure a program in Windows 11 and come across instructions that said, “Edit the INI file” or “Create a new INI file”? If so, you may have wondered: What exactly is an INI file, and how do I create one?

Don’t worry — it’s simpler than it sounds. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to create an INI file in Windows 11, explain what INI files are used for, and share tips to avoid common mistakes.

📝 Quick Summary: Key Takeaways

  • An INI file is a plain text configuration file used by Windows applications.

  • You can create one with Notepad, Notepad++, or any text editor.

  • Save the file with a .ini extension instead of .txt.

  • INI files follow a simple structure: sections, keys, and values.

  • Used for storing program settings, preferences, or initialization data.

What Is an INI File in Windows 11?

An INI file (short for Initialization file) is a simple plain text configuration file.

It usually contains:

  • Sections: Enclosed in square brackets [ ].

  • Keys and Values: Written in the form key=value.

Example of a Basic INI File

[UserSettings]
username=JohnDoe
theme=dark
autosave=true

This structure helps software applications load your preferences the next time you run them.

Why Do You Need to Create an INI File?

You might need an INI file if you are:

  • Configuring game settings or mods.

  • Setting up custom software preferences.

  • Creating a portable application that remembers your settings.

  • Working with scripts or automation tools.

In short, INI files act like the “instruction manual” that tells software how to behave.

How to Create an INI File in Windows 11

Let’s go step by step.

Method 1: Create an INI File Using Notepad

This is the easiest way for beginners.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + S, type Notepad, and open it.

  2. Write your configuration in the following format:

    [Settings]
    language=en
    fullscreen=true
    volume=80

  3. Click File > Save As….

  4. In the File name box, type:

    filename.ini

  5. In the Save as type dropdown, choose All Files (.).

  6. Select UTF-8 encoding (recommended).

  7. Click Save.

👉 You now have a working INI file.

Method 2: Create an INI File with Notepad++

If you prefer more control, use Notepad++, a free text editor.

Steps:

  1. Install Notepad++ from the official site.

  2. Open it and create a new file.

  3. Write your configuration, e.g.:

    [Graphics]
    resolution=1920x1080
    quality=high

  4. Click File > Save As.

  5. Choose All Types and type config.ini.

  6. Save it in the desired folder.

Notepad++ also highlights syntax, making INI editing easier.

Method 3: Create an INI File via Command Prompt

For advanced users, you can create an INI file using Command Prompt.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.

  2. Navigate to your target folder using cd. Example:

    cd Desktop

  3. Run this command:

    echo [Settings]>config.ini

  4. This will instantly create a file named config.ini with [Settings] inside.

Method 4: Create an INI File with PowerShell

PowerShell is another quick way.

Steps:

  1. Open PowerShell (Win + X → Windows PowerShell).

  2. Enter this command:

    Set-Content -Path "C:\Users\YourName\Desktop\config.ini" -Value "[AppSettings]`nmode=dark"

  3. This creates a new config.ini file on your desktop.

INI File Structure Explained

An INI file follows a very simple pattern:

  • Sections: [SectionName]

  • Key-Value Pairs: key=value

Example:

[User]
name=Alice
email=alice@example.com

[Preferences]
theme=dark
autosave=true

💡 Tip: Use comments with ; at the beginning of a line.

; This is a comment

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Saving as filename.ini.txt instead of .ini.

  • ❌ Forgetting to change Save as type to All Files.

  • ❌ Using unsupported characters or spaces in section names.

  • ❌ Leaving out the = between keys and values.

How to Edit an INI File in Windows 11

  • Right-click the INI file → Open with > Notepad (or Notepad++).

  • Make changes carefully — wrong values can break a program.

  • Always create a backup before editing.

Pros and Cons of Using INI Files

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
Easy to read and edit Not encrypted (anyone can view settings)
Lightweight text format Can break programs if misconfigured
Supported by many apps Lacks advanced data handling
Portable across devices May be replaced by XML/JSON in modern apps

Conclusion

Now you know how to create an INI file in Windows 11 — using Notepad, Notepad++, Command Prompt, or PowerShell. INI files are simple yet powerful tools that store program settings and preferences.

Whether you’re configuring a game, customizing software, or building your own application, INI files give you full control. Just remember to use the correct format and always save with the .ini extension.

❓ FAQs About Creating INI Files in Windows 11

1. Can I open an INI file with Word or Excel?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. Use Notepad or Notepad++ to avoid formatting issues.

2. What happens if I delete an INI file?
Some programs will recreate it with default settings; others may not run correctly.

3. Can I password-protect an INI file?
Not directly. But you can encrypt the folder containing it.

4. Do all Windows programs use INI files?
No. Many modern apps use XML, JSON, or the Windows Registry instead.

5. Is an INI file the same as a config file?
Yes, INI files are one type of config file, but not the only format.

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