How to Get OneNote for Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Install OneNote on Windows 10

Getting OneNote on a Windows 10 device isn’t complicated, but sometimes it can feel a bit tricky. It’s quite simple: just open the Microsoft Store, search for the app, and click download. That said, things don’t always go perfectly—though most users can have it up and running in just a few minutes. Once it’s installed, OneNote can really transform the way you organise notes and ideas, making life a whole lot easier for anyone keen to stay on top of things.

Start with the Microsoft Store

Open the Microsoft Store by clicking the Start menu (bottom left on the taskbar) and typing Microsoft Store. When it appears, click on the icon.

Shortcut: Alternatively, press Win + S and type Microsoft Store to find it quickly.

Finding OneNote

Once you’re in the Store, type “OneNote” into the search box at the top right. You should see the official version pop up straight away—can’t miss it.

Tip: You can also use Win + S to bring up the search bar if you prefer.

Checking App Details

Click on the OneNote listing to see more info. Have a quick look at the user ratings and make sure your device is compatible; you’ll need at least Windows 10 version 1809.

How to check your system info: Go to Settings > System > About, or press Win + R, type msinfo32, and hit Enter to view your specs.

Time to Download

Click the “Get” button to start downloading and installing. It usually doesn’t take long, but it’s a good idea to keep your internet connection steady to avoid any interruptions.

Note: For the tech-savvy, you can also install OneNote via PowerShell, but for most users, using the Store is the easiest and safest way.

Launching and Using OneNote

Once installed, find OneNote in your apps list or search for it through the Start menu. If prompted to sign in with a Microsoft account, just do so — it’ll make syncing your notes across devices a breeze.

Quick access: Press Win + S, type OneNote, and hit Enter.

Quick Tips for a Smooth Setup

To make the process even easier, keep these tips in mind:

  • Double-check your device meets the minimum requirements for OneNote.
  • Ensure your Windows 10 is updated to at least version 1809 (Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update).
  • Use a stable internet connection during download to prevent drops in connection.
  • Have your Microsoft account details ready for quick sign-in and syncing.
  • Keep your apps up to date by heading to Microsoft Store > Library and clicking Get updates, or set updates to happen automatically in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • If you’re into PowerShell, you can run Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.MicrosoftOfficeOneNote* to check if OneNote is already installed.

FAQs About OneNote on Windows 10

Is OneNote free?

Yes, OneNote is free on Windows 10. You can use it without paying a cent, although a Microsoft 365 subscription unlocks some extra features.

Do I need a Microsoft Account?

It’s highly recommended. A Microsoft Account makes syncing notes and accessing OneDrive easy — just head to Settings > Account > Your Info or type ms-settings:yourinfo to get started.

Can I edit notes offline?

Absolutely! OneNote saves your notes locally, and they’ll sync once you’re back online. To check your sync settings, go to File > Options > Save & Backup.

What are the system specifications?

Most modern computers will handle OneNote without any drama. Just ensure your system has at least 4 GB of RAM and a dual-core processor. For full details, visit the Microsoft Store app page or run msinfo32.

How do I update OneNote?

Updates generally happen automatically. To check manually, open the Microsoft Store, go to Library, and click Get updates. You can also run powershell -Command "Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.MicrosoftOfficeOneNote*" in PowerShell to see its current status.

Quick Summary of Installing OneNote

  1. Open the Microsoft Store (Start > Microsoft Store) or visit ms-windows-store://.
  2. Search “OneNote” using the search bar (Win + S).
  3. Select the official app from the results.
  4. Click “Get” to start downloading.
  5. Once installed, launch OneNote from the Start menu (Start > Microsoft OneNote).

Final Thoughts on Getting OneNote

Setting up OneNote on Windows 10 should give you a more organised way to keep track of your notes. While it’s meant to be straightforward, sometimes things can throw you a curveball — but the benefits are worth the effort. Once you’ve got it sorted, OneNote is a trusty sidekick, helping tame the chaos of daily life.

If you run into any issues during installation, Microsoft’s support pages are a handy place to start. Embracing OneNote is a smart move towards better organisation. Hopefully, this guide saves you some time and hassle!