How to view the programs installed on a computer

There are a few ways to view the software that is currently installed on a desktop or laptop computer. To proceed, select your operating system from the list below and follow the instructions.

View all programs in Windows

The Start menu or Start screen provides a list of all programs installed on a computer that are available for use. For more details, select your version of Windows in the list below and review the instructions.

Windows 11

Click Start or press the Windows key. In the Start menu, click the All apps button near the top-right corner to view all programs on the computer.

Windows 10

Click Start or press the Windows key. All programs on the computer are displayed on the Start menu.

Windows 8

Press the Windows key, type All Apps, and press Enter. The window that opens has a full list of programs installed on the computer.

Windows 7 and earlier

1. Click Start.
2. In the Start menu, click All programs or Programs.
3. All programs installed on the computer are displayed.

View all removable programs in Windows

The Programs and Features utility in Windows lets you view the programs on a computer that can be uninstalled.

Windows Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11

1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and press Enter.
2. Under the Programs section, click the Uninstall a program link.

3. In the Programs and Features window, any of the programs you see can be uninstalled.

View all programs installed on a Mac

1. Click the Finder icon on the Dock at the bottom of the screen.

2. On the left side of the Finder window, under the Favorites section, click the selector.
3. The section to the right of the menu shows the programs installed on your Mac.