How do I record my Windows screen without an app?

Want to record your Windows screen without running any software? You could be using a computer where installing software is either prohibited or not what you want. No matter why you need a screen recorder for windows, we will walk you through two methods for recording your screen using tools native to Windows.

Method 1: Steps Recorder

The Steps Recorder (previously Problem Steps Recorder) is a more straightforward solution if you won’t be creating a full-blown video clip of your screen. It does not record video but instead takes a series of still images to show how something is done. It works well as a substitute for sending a large video clip and helps document the actions prompting error messages.

Step 1: Find Steps Recorder from the Windows Start menu

This opens a small window where you can click Start Record to get started. After that, do the actions you want to record.

Step 2: Click the Add Comment, if you want to elaborate on anything

You may use this to annotate a specific region of the screen.

Step 3: Click the Stop Record after you’re finished

The information it has collected will be shown in a new window. In addition to keeping a log of your actions, it will also take a snapshot whenever you click or type. The person attempting to assist you can see precisely what’s going on thanks to this and the technical details at the bottom.

Step 4: Go to the file’s menu and choose Save As once you’re happy with your recording

Your information will be saved in a ZIP file, making it simple to provide to whoever troubleshoots your issue. And of course, this is yours to keep, and you can use it any way you choose.

Method 2: Microsoft PowerPoint

Because it needs PowerPoint, this Windows screen recorder is more of a bonus than a truly installation-free alternative. Since Microsoft Office is preinstalled on most computers, we’ve included it.

Step 1: Click Screen Recording under Insert tab

Step 2: Click Select Area or press Windows+Shift+A on the dock. Select the screen area you wish to record using the crosshairs tool.

Step 3: Audio and mouse pointer are automatically recorded. Click the dock buttons to switch them off.

Step 4: Click Record or press Windows+Shift+R to start. This shortcut also pauses and resumes recording. PowerPoint will record even as you switch programs or windows.

Step 5: After recording, drag your mouse pointer to the dock to reappear it. Stop recording by clicking Stop or pressing Windows+Shift+Q (Click the bottom right corner to pin the dock while recording).

Step 6: Right-click the video still shot and choose Save Media As to save the recording. Choose the filename and location, then click Save.

This list is all about screen recorders that come with Windows. They can come in handy, but you shouldn’t rely on them entirely. Check out the top screencasting applications if you often record screencasts. They provide many additional options for making high-quality screen recordings for power users.