Finding Windows Movie Maker can be tricky, especially with evolving operating systems. This guide provides various methods to locate and, if necessary, reinstall the popular video editing software.
Understanding the Current Landscape
Windows Movie Maker, once a staple pre-installed on Windows operating systems, is no longer officially supported by Microsoft. However, that doesn’t mean it’s completely inaccessible. The method for finding it depends on which version of Windows you’re running and whether you previously installed it. If it came with your computer, you’ll have the easiest time finding it. If you didn’t previously have it installed, getting it can be more complex, requiring searching third-party sources – proceed with caution in those instances.
Methods for Locating Windows Movie Maker
Depending on your situation, there are several paths you can take to find Windows Movie Maker:
1. Check Your Start Menu and Program Files
This is the first and simplest step.
- Windows Search: Type “Movie Maker” into the Windows search bar (usually located at the bottom left of your screen). If it’s installed, it should appear in the search results.
- Start Menu: Browse through the list of installed programs in your Start Menu. Look for folders like “Windows Live” (which might contain Movie Maker if it was installed as part of the Windows Live Essentials suite) or simply under “M” for Movie Maker.
- Program Files: Navigate to your Program Files or Program Files (x86) directory on your C: drive. Look for a folder named “Movie Maker” or “Windows Live.” If you find it, the executable file is likely named
MovieMaker.exe.
2. Utilizing the File Explorer’s Search Function
If the Start Menu search fails, try using the File Explorer.
- Open File Explorer (Windows key + E).
- In the search bar at the top right, type
MovieMaker.exe. - Ensure the search is configured to search your entire C: drive. This may take a few minutes.
3. Considering Windows Live Essentials
If you previously installed Windows Live Essentials, which bundled Movie Maker with other applications, it might still be present on your system, even if unlisted. Reinstalling Windows Live Essentials is a possible avenue to regain access to Movie Maker.
4. Examining Older Windows Versions
If you’ve recently upgraded your Windows operating system, look for residual folders or files from your previous installation. These might contain the Movie Maker executable. Check folders like “Windows.old” on your C: drive.
5. Understanding Compatibility Mode
In some cases, Movie Maker may be installed but not functioning correctly due to compatibility issues with your current Windows version. Try running MovieMaker.exe in compatibility mode. Right-click the executable file, select “Properties,” go to the “Compatibility” tab, and experiment with different compatibility settings (e.g., Windows XP, Windows 7).
6. Caution Regarding Third-Party Downloads
Downloading Movie Maker from unverified sources poses a significant security risk. Many websites offering “free” downloads bundle the software with malware or adware. Always exercise extreme caution and scan any downloaded files with a reputable antivirus program. Consider downloading a version from a trusted archive site if you must.
7. Exploring Alternative Video Editing Software
If you can’t find a secure version of Windows Movie Maker, consider exploring alternative video editing software. Several free and paid options offer similar or even more advanced features. Some popular choices include:
- OpenShot: A free and open-source video editor.
- DaVinci Resolve: A professional-grade video editor with a free version.
- HitFilm Express: A free video editor with advanced visual effects capabilities.
- Shotcut: Another free and open-source option that is easy to use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Windows Movie Maker still supported by Microsoft?
No, Windows Movie Maker is no longer officially supported by Microsoft. They discontinued support for it in 2017. This means you won’t receive updates or security patches, so using older versions carries some risk.
2. Can I download Windows Movie Maker from the Microsoft Store?
No, Windows Movie Maker is not available for download from the Microsoft Store. Any app claiming to be “Movie Maker” in the Microsoft Store is likely a third-party application and might not be the authentic software.
3. I’m running Windows 10/11. Was Windows Movie Maker pre-installed?
No, Windows Movie Maker was not pre-installed on Windows 10 or Windows 11. It was a component of the Windows Live Essentials suite, which has been discontinued.
4. Is it safe to download Windows Movie Maker from third-party websites?
Downloading Windows Movie Maker from unverified third-party websites is risky. These downloads often contain malware, adware, or other unwanted software. Only download from trusted sources, if possible, and scan the downloaded file with an antivirus program before running it.
5. What is Windows Live Essentials, and how does it relate to Movie Maker?
Windows Live Essentials was a suite of free applications from Microsoft that included Windows Movie Maker, Windows Photo Gallery, Windows Mail, and other programs. It was discontinued in 2017, but you might still find it installed on older systems.
6. How do I uninstall Windows Live Essentials?
To uninstall Windows Live Essentials, go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features. Locate “Windows Live Essentials” in the list, select it, and click “Uninstall/Change.” Follow the on-screen instructions to remove the suite.
7. I found MovieMaker.exe but it won’t open. What could be the problem?
Several factors could prevent Movie Maker from opening:
- Compatibility issues: Try running the program in compatibility mode (as described above).
- Corrupted files: The MovieMaker.exe file might be corrupted. Try reinstalling it (if you have the installation file).
- Missing dependencies: The program might require specific dependencies or runtime libraries that are not installed on your system. Check the program’s documentation or forums for troubleshooting steps.
8. What are some good free alternatives to Windows Movie Maker?
Several excellent free video editing alternatives exist, including OpenShot, DaVinci Resolve (free version), HitFilm Express, and Shotcut. These programs offer a wide range of features and are suitable for both beginners and more experienced users.
9. Can I use Windows Movie Maker on a Mac?
No, Windows Movie Maker is designed for Windows operating systems and is not compatible with macOS. To edit videos on a Mac, you’ll need to use a Mac-compatible video editing program, such as iMovie or DaVinci Resolve.
10. I upgraded to Windows 10/11. Where did Movie Maker go?
When you upgraded, Windows likely removed the Windows Live Essentials suite (if it was installed) due to compatibility issues. Movie Maker was part of that suite, hence its disappearance.
11. Is there a way to recover the original Windows Movie Maker if it’s gone?
It can be difficult to recover the original version directly if you didn’t back it up. Your best bet is to search for a legitimate, archived version of the Windows Live Essentials installer online (with extreme caution about the source) or explore alternative video editing software.
12. What should I look for when evaluating alternative video editing software?
When choosing a video editing program, consider these factors:
- User-friendliness: Is the interface intuitive and easy to learn?
- Features: Does it offer the features you need, such as trimming, adding effects, transitions, and text?
- Compatibility: Is it compatible with your operating system and video formats?
- Performance: Does it run smoothly on your computer?
- Cost: Is it free, or does it require a paid subscription or license?
By carefully considering these options and exercising caution, you can either locate Windows Movie Maker or find a suitable replacement for your video editing needs. Remember to prioritize security and explore alternative options if the risks outweigh the benefits of using an outdated and unsupported program.