How to Change Display Language in Windows 10

Changing the display language in Windows 10 lets you switch the language used in menus, settings, and built-in apps. This guide shows you how to add a language pack and apply it as the default, making Windows easier to use in your preferred language.

What You’ll Need

• A Windows 10 PC with an internet connection to download language packs.
• Administrator access (you’ll need to sign in with an admin account to add a language).
• Your Microsoft account password (if you use one) to confirm the change.

Step-by-Step

1. Open Settings. Press Windows + I on your keyboard, or click the Start button and select the gear icon.
2. Go to Time & Language. In the Settings window, click on Time & Language.
3. Select Language. From the left sidebar, choose Language.
4. Add a language. Under the “Preferred languages” section, click Add a language.
5. Choose your language. Scroll through the list or type the language name in the search box. Select the language you want, then click Next.
6. Install the language pack. In the “Install language features” screen, make sure Set as my Windows display language is checked. Also check Speech and Handwriting if you want those features (optional). Click Install.
7. Wait for the download. Windows will download and install the language pack. This may take a few minutes depending on your internet speed.
8. Sign out and sign back in. Once the installation is complete, you’ll see a prompt to sign out. Save your work, then click Sign out (or sign out manually). Log back in with your account.
9. Verify the change. After signing in, the display language should be switched. Check the Start menu, Settings, and File Explorer to confirm.

Common Mistakes

• Not checking “Set as my Windows display language” during installation – this option is easy to miss and must be selected for the language to apply.
• Choosing the wrong language variant – for example, selecting “English (United Kingdom)” instead of “English (United States)” can affect spell check and some regional settings.
• Forgetting to sign out – the change only takes effect after signing out and back in, not immediately.
• Assuming all apps will change – some third-party apps may not automatically follow the Windows display language and need their own language settings adjusted.

Tips

• Keep the old language as a secondary option – you can switch back anytime by going to Settings > Time & Language > Language, selecting your preferred language, and clicking Set as default.
• Use language packs for offline use – if you have limited internet, download the pack while connected and it will be available offline.
• Check for regional differences – some languages have multiple variants (e.g., Spanish (Spain) vs. Spanish (Mexico)). Pick the one that matches your region for better localisation.
• Adjust the keyboard layout separately – changing the display language does not change your keyboard input method. To add a keyboard layout, go to the same Language settings and click on the language to see options.

Troubleshooting

• The language pack won’t download. Check your internet connection. If it’s stable, restart Windows Update service: press Windows + R, type services.msc, find Windows Update, right-click it, and select Restart. Then try again.
• The display language didn’t change after signing back in. Go back to Settings > Time & Language > Language. Make sure your desired language is at the top of the “Preferred languages” list. If not, click it and select Set as default. Then sign out and in again.
• Some text still appears in the old language. This is normal for certain system components or legacy apps. To force a full refresh, restart your PC completely (not just sign out). If the issue persists, check if the app has its own language settings.
• You get an error about a missing language pack. Ensure you have the latest Windows updates installed. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click Check for updates.
• The language option is greyed out. This usually means you’re not signed in as an administrator. Sign in with an admin account or ask your system administrator to make the change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the display language without an internet connection?

No, Windows 10 needs to download the language pack from Microsoft servers. If you have offline language pack files (CAB files), you can install them via PowerShell, but that’s more advanced and requires the files.

Will changing the display language affect my files or installed programs?

No, your personal files and installed programs remain untouched. Only the language of Windows interface elements changes. Some apps might need their own language settings updated separately.

Can I have multiple display languages and switch between them easily?

Yes, you can add multiple languages and set one as the default. To switch, go to Settings > Time & Language > Language, select the language you want, and click Set as default. You’ll need to sign out and back in each time.

Why is the language pack not available for my Windows version?

Language packs are available for all editions of Windows 10, but some older builds may not support the latest packs. Make sure your Windows is updated to the latest version.

Will changing the display language change the keyboard layout?

No, the display language and keyboard layout are separate. To change the keyboard layout, go to Settings > Time & Language > Language, click on your language, and then Options to add a keyboard.

Can I change the language for only one user account?

Yes, language settings are per-user. Changing the display language affects only the account you’re signed into. Other users keep their own settings.

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