Upgrading to Windows 11 brings a sleek new interface, improved security, and better performance. But when you need to digitize a contract, preserve old family photos, or scan a receipt, you might wonder: What’s the best way to scan on this new OS?

While Windows 11 has built-in tools, dedicated scan software often provides better quality, more features, and fewer headaches. Here is everything you need to know about scanning on Microsoft’s latest operating system. Before downloading third-party software, check what’s already on your machine. Microsoft replaced the old "Windows Fax and Scan" with a modern UWP app called Windows Scan (available via the Microsoft Store).