Free Tools to Bring Back the Start Menu in Windows 8

Windows 8 Start Screen

Microsoft’s latest OS, Windows 8, has a slick new style menu called the Metro. Unfortunately, as someone providing IT support, I’ve noticed a good number of users complaining about it.

Traditionalists will always want that old feeling that older versions of Windows have, and most times you will have to find ways to bring back the start menu in Windows 8.

You can achieve this by tweaking the registry – which could be catastrophic – so instead I will list some free tools that you can use to make this easier.

1. Classic Shell is the most famous clone of the classic Windows start menu and has the search and run options.The program was developed by Ivo Belchtev and can run Windows 8, 7, Vista, Server 2008, 2008 R2 and 2012, and supports 32 and 64 bit versions.Classic Shell can be downloaded at http://classicshell.sourceforge.net/index.html
2. Power8 is another open source program from the Ukraine and is designed for Windows 8. However, it also works with XP SP3 and Windows 7.It provides a neat replacement for the start menu and doesn’t mess up the system of install additional drivers or services.Power8 is available at http://code.google.com/p/power8/
3. Pokki for Windows 8 gives a slicker start menu and allows you to search for apps, control panel as well add as app sites, files or folders for quick access.Pokki also updates frequently so regular checks on their website is a must.Pokki for Windows 8 can be downloaded at https://www.pokki.com/windows-8-start-menu

Well, there you have it – 3 free tools – you can download and use to bring back the old start menu to your Windows 8 installation.

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Bernard Sinai

Bernard is a writer, martial art enthusiast and geek.

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