Step-by-Step Guide for Installing and Uninstalling Language Packs on Windows

Key Notes

  • Learn how to install and remove language packs on Windows.
  • Use both GUI and PowerShell methods for flexibility.
  • Understand how to modify language settings effectively.

Customize Your Windows Experience: Installing and Removing Language Packs

Windows supports a wide array of languages, enabling users to configure their system according to their preferences. While some users may be limited to a single display language depending on their Windows license, this guide will provide you with comprehensive steps to install, remove, and manage language packs in Windows Operating Systems.

Steps to Install Language Packs via Settings

Step 1: Navigate to Language Settings

For Windows 11, go to Settings > Time & Language > Language & Region. For Windows 10, access Start > Settings > Time & Language > Language.

Step 2: Add New Language

In the Preferred Languages panel, click on the Add a Language button to introduce a new language pack.

Step 3: Choose Desired Language

Browse or search through the available languages, select your desired option, and click Next.

Pro Tip: You can choose various English options as per your regional preference, such as English (Australia) or English (Canada).

Step 4: Install Language Pack

During installation, Windows may offer additional features like Enhanced Speech Recognition. Uncheck these if unnecessary, then click Install.

Step 5: Restart to Apply Changes

The new language pack will require a system restart to take effect. You can rearrange your preferred languages as needed.

Step 6: Adjust Keyboard Settings

To change your keyboard layout, select the newly added language, navigate to Options, and click Add a Keyboard for the necessary layout.

Install Language Packs Using PowerShell

Step 1: Open PowerShell as Administrator

Launch PowerShell in Administrator mode using Win + R, typing powershell, and pressing Ctrl + Shift + Enter.

Step 2: Check Installed Languages

Retrieve installed languages using the appropriate command. For instance: 

Get-WinUserLanguageList

Step 3: Install New Language

To install a language pack, utilize the command: 

Add-WinUserLanguageList fr-fr

Pro Tip: Change fr-fr to the desired language code (e.g., for Australian English use en-au ).

Adding Language Packs with the Registry Editor

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

Access the Registry Editor by typing regedit in the Run command.

Step 2: Navigate to Language Path

Follow this path in the Registry: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Nls\Language.

Step 3: Create a New String Value

Create a new String value named after the target language (e.g., es-es ).Save the language installer pack in your Windows directory, and enter its path in the Value data field.

Removing Language Packs Through Settings

Step 1: Change Primary Display Language

Before removal, ensure that your primary display language is set to a different option. Navigate to Settings > Time & Language > Language & Region to adjust this.

Step 2: Remove Unnecessary Languages

In the Language & Region section, click on the three-dot icon of the language to be removed and select Remove. This action is not available for primary languages.

Delete Language Packs with PowerShell

Step 1: Open PowerShell as Administrator

Access PowerShell in Administrator mode again using the previous method.

Step 2: Show Installed Languages

Display the installed language packs with: 

Get-WinUserLanguageList

Step 3: Execute Removal Command

Use the command to uninstall a specified pack: 

Remove-WinUserLanguageList en-GB

Additional Tips

  • Always verify your primary display language before attempting any removals.
  • In some cases, certain language packs may require a system restart to take full effect.
  • Consider backing up your system settings before making significant changes to language configurations.

Summary

This guide has presented a detailed workflow regarding how to install and remove language packs within Windows. By utilizing both the graphical user interface and command-line methods like PowerShell, users can effectively customize their language settings according to their needs.

Conclusion

Expanding your Windows experience through diverse language packs not only enhances usability but also supports academic and professional work across various languages. Whether you’re multilingual or wish to learn new languages, the steps outlined are designed to empower you to take control of your operating system’s language settings.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use multiple languages simultaneously in Windows?

Yes, you can install multiple language packs and switch between them as needed through the language settings.

Are there any language packs for free?

Yes, many language packs provided by Microsoft are available for free within the settings of Windows.