Windows Server 2019 __exclusive__ — Sticky Notes App

Blog Title: Can You Run a Sticky Notes App on Windows Server 2019? (And How to Do It Right)

Published: October 11, 2023 | Category: System Administration | Reading Time: 3 minutes

As an IT admin, your Windows Server 2019 machine is often a hub of critical tasks—managing Active Directory, monitoring Hyper-V, or patching SQL servers. In the middle of a high-pressure troubleshooting session, you need to jot down a quick IP address, a PowerShell command, or a reminder to reboot a service. sticky notes app windows server 2019

Your first instinct might be to reach for the classic Sticky Notes app. But does it work on Server 2019?

The short answer: Yes, but not out of the box. Blog Title: Can You Run a Sticky Notes

Here is everything you need to know about getting a sticky notes experience on Windows Server 2019, including the official method, a better alternative, and security considerations.

8. Alternative Native Solution – Notepad + Shortcut

For a zero-install, audit-friendly approach: Create a text file C:\Shared\Notes\%username%

  1. Create a text file C:\Shared\Notes\%username%.txt
  2. Place shortcut in startup folder: %AppData%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
  3. Instruct users to press Win + R → notepad for instant note.

Method 2: Install Sticky Notes using Server Manager

You can also install Sticky Notes using Server Manager. Follow these steps:

  1. Open Server Manager.
  2. Click on Manage and select Add Roles and Features.
  3. Click Next until you reach the Features section.
  4. Scroll down and check the box next to Microsoft Windows Sticky Notes.
  5. Click Next and then Install.

4.2 Performance Impact

  • Sticky Notes is lightweight (~20 MB RAM idle).
  • Running 100+ concurrent RDS users with individual sticky notes adds minimal overhead.
  • No known memory leaks in Server 2019 environment (unlike older OS versions).

The Problem: Sticky Notes is a Consumer App

Windows Server 2019 is built for stability and security, not user experience widgets. Unlike Windows 10 or 11, Server 2019 does not include the Microsoft Store or the modern "Microsoft Sticky Notes" app by default.

If you search the Start Menu for "Sticky Notes," you will find nothing.

4. Remote Desktop Services (RDS) Considerations