How to Check Installed Software in Windows 10

What counts as installed software on Windows 10?

On Windows 10, installed software includes both traditional desktop programs that you install from executables and modern Store apps (UWP). The distinction matters because each type appears in different places on your system. When you ask how to check installed software in windows 10, you’re really asking for a complete inventory that covers both categories. Keep in mind that some components come preinstalled by the PC maker and may not show under a standard Programs and Features list. A thorough audit recognizes both Store apps and classic programs to give you a true picture of software on the machine. This distinction becomes important for license management, security patches, and removing unused software that drains system resources.

Homeowners, renters, and DIY enthusiasts will benefit from a clear, practical approach to inventory so they can plan updates, renew licenses, or prepare for a clean reinstall if needed.

Why inventory installed software matters

A comprehensive software inventory supports several practical goals. It helps you verify licenses and subscriptions, identify unused or unwanted programs, and spot potential security risks from outdated software. For a homeowner performing routine maintenance, an up-to-date inventory makes it easier to plan updates during off-peak hours and avoid accidental uninstalls of critical tools. For renters or those managing shared devices, a mapped inventory improves accountability and simplifies future handoffs. In short, knowing what is installed gives you control over performance, privacy, and security. Install Manual’s research emphasizes that a robust inventory reduces surprises during audits or device refreshes.

Settings approach: Apps & features

The Settings app provides a quick way to see Store apps and many traditional programs. Start by opening the Start menu, choosing Settings, and selecting Apps. Use the search bar to filter by name, and switch to the Apps & features view to see a list of installed items with their install date and size where available. This method is fast and user-friendly for casual checks, but it may not show every desktop program, especially those installed from older installers. Pro tip: enable the sort by Publisher option to spot bundled software and potential bloat easily.

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Control Panel approach: Programs and Features

For a more traditional inventory, open the Control Panel and navigate to Programs and Features. This view lists desktop programs that were installed with installers and may include tools not visible in Settings. Scroll through the list, check installation dates, and note any entries that look unfamiliar. If you need a longer list, you can copy entries to a document or take periodic screenshots. This method complements Settings by capturing programs that Store apps often omit.

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PowerShell approach: listing installed software

PowerShell provides a deeper inventory by examining the registry keys that Windows uses to track installed software. Start by launching PowerShell (preferably run as administrator) and running commands that query both 64-bit and 32-bit uninstall locations. The resulting list can show DisplayName, DisplayVersion, and Publisher. To make this usable for audits, export the results to a CSV file for easy sharing and archiving. This approach captures many items that Settings and Control Panel miss, including legacy installers.

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Cross-checking 32-bit and 64-bit installations and the Registry

Windows stores both 64-bit and 32-bit installed programs in separate registry trees. A complete inventory should query both locations so nothing falls through the cracks. If you only query one path, you risk missing older apps or those installed by different architectures. A thorough audit combines data from both locations to present a unified view. When in doubt, run a follow-up check using a different method to confirm the results.

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Exporting and saving your inventory

Exporting results makes audits repeatable and helps with license reviews. In PowerShell, you can pipe the results to a CSV file, including essential fields like name, version, and publisher. If you prefer a quick shareable report, you can also export to CSV from the Settings/Apps view by copying the displayed list into a spreadsheet. Always save the file to a secure location and maintain versioned copies for future reference.

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Addressing gaps: store apps and missing entries

Store apps may not appear in the same lists as desktop programs, so it’s important to check Settings for Store apps and combine that data with the PowerShell/registry approach. If you find gaps, consider running a targeted search for common app names or publishers and cross-reference with the list from the uninstall registry. Document any discrepancies and update your inventory accordingly.

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When to use third-party inventory tools and best practices

For larger environments or ongoing maintenance, third-party inventory tools can automate discovery across devices and provide centralized reports. When selecting a tool, look for features like agent-based vs agentless discovery, export formats, and integration with existing asset management workflows. For home users, stick to built-in options and a basic CSV export to keep things simple and private while still getting a complete view.

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Authority sources and practical considerations

When building your software inventory, reliable references help validate the process. See official documentation on Windows commands and scripting for inventory tasks, and consult government and major publications for best practices in asset management and cybersecurity. Always respect privacy and security policies when auditing software on devices you own or manage on behalf of others.

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Authority sources

• Learn more about PowerShell, scripting, and exporting data from Microsoft's official documentation. This resource explains how to leverage PowerShell for inventory tasks and reporting.
• Government and major publications provide guidance on asset management, software auditing, and cybersecurity best practices to keep your device ecosystem secure.
• Industry-standard references offer best practices for documenting installed software, verifying licenses, and maintaining audit-ready reports.