Hello everyone, I often ask about the eight, and there are questions about how to set up start in windows 8.1. Since in this operating system, the start button has radically changed its meaning and principle of operation, only the hype with its absence created a whole panic and just pecked Windows 8. And so we look at what kind of animal it is, the start button.

And so you have a fresh, installed Windows 8.1 and you have no problems that the start button does not work in Windows 8.1 and you decide to customize the start button for yourself. If you, like me, remember XP or the seven, then you are used to the fact that you poke on the start and you open, the classic display, on the left in the form of a tree will be your programs and Windows features, right shortcuts to important elements systems. In short, this view has been dragging on for a very long time since Windows 95, sort of.

Customize your launch

The first global difference was that now in windows 8.1 start by right-clicking on it gives big menu, with the most common utilities that are needed when setting it up. It does this so that you quickly get into these settings.

• Programs and Features
• Mobility Center
• Power Management
• Event Viewer
• System
• device Manager
• Network connections
• Disk Management
• Computer management
• Command line
• Task Manager
• Control Panel
• Conductor
• Find
• Run
• Shut down or log out

The list is impressive and you can add your own items to it, the main thing is to correct Windows registry 8.1. And so we continue to configure the start in windows 8.1. We left-click on it, and here is a global change, especially for those who are used to the classics. Here is the interface of tiles, it is also called Metro. Each tile is a shortcut to an application. To be honest, I like them even more than classic menu, or the start menu in Windows 10. Tiles are live, which means they can be moved around with a simple drag and drop.

In the right corner in the start of the eight, you can notice the computer shutdown icon, when you click on which you can perform, these are the actions

• sleep mode
• shutdown

If you also click on the user icon, then he will also show his functions

• Change avatar > change user avatar during login window
• Lock > lock computer
• Log out > log out

If you right-click on any of the tiles, you will bring up a context menu in which you can delete it or run it as an administrator.

Delete everything you don’t need, and leave only what you use, and then it will be a pleasure to work with the start button

If you click on empty place right click, you can configure the names of groups in windows 8.1 start.

At the bottom there is a magic down arrow, thanks to which you can display all installed programs in Windows 8.1

and here you have all the programs and utilities, at the beginning it may not seem very convenient, but if you create tiles on the main panel from here. you don't need to come here.

In an incredibly record time, the "nimble eight", which came out just a couple of years ago, managed to win a lot of fans. And there is a reasonable explanation for this. Creative approach of developers to the design style new operating system due to the cold calculation of the forward-thinking Microsoft team. The Metro interface really looks impressive. However, Windows 8 has somewhat puzzled conservative-minded users. However, the problem was quickly resolved. Feel free to read this article, from which you will learn a lot of interesting things about the start button and how to return to your usual comfort in working with the successor to Windows 7.

Joys and disappointments

Touch devices have literally changed. The hardware stuffing of compact devices, "inspired" by the new features of the operating system, began to amaze its owners with productive performance. And the Start menu in Windows 8 fits quite harmoniously into the tiled mosaic of the start screen. Nevertheless, desktop users literally immediately felt such an innovation as a kind of catch on the part of Bill and his team. The inconvenience and unfamiliarity pretty much frayed the nerves of many who were so eagerly waiting for the release of Microsoft's perfection. Alas, the miracle was not given to happen. And that's why.

Windows 8: where is the start button?

It is difficult for us, users who are accustomed to the traditional layout, to relearn - this is how a person works, and the "eight" with its starting bells and whistles once again confirmed the truth of the wise statement "And there is a hole in the old woman." Needless to say, there was a way out. Sharp-witted programmers have returned the navigation functionality of the previous operating systems, which was lost by the eight. Today, there are an incredible number of various programs and tweakers, with which the user resolves the impasse. However, some with a certain gratitude "moved" to the Metro almost immediately. True connoisseurs of established traditions began to install software features on their PCs and laptops. Life began to improve! If you are wondering where is the start menu in Windows 8 with original interface, then you will see the answer by looking at the start screen of the new operating system.

The most proven methods for returning a convenient button to its place

In order not to scare the most indecisive users, let's start with free options.

Solution #1: VIStart

This program is absolutely free, almost weightless, its size is only 800 KB. However, there is a drawback in the form of the lack of a Russian interface. By the way, it was previously developed as software for windows decoration xp. Today it performs a useful mission - to return the "Start" button to former place in the eight. This application supports skins, which means that using this software tool, you can change the appearance of the start menu.

Installation and setup

After installation, the Lee-Soft Application Manager icon will appear in the system tray, which, in principle, is an update agent, the "Start" button itself will not appear in Windows 8. Create and name it Start. However, the issue is resolved in automatic mode. After you see the desired icon, the installation process can be considered complete. Icon click right click mouse will allow you to change the design.

Solution #2: Classic Shell

Incredibly convenient software, distribution size 8.5 MB, Russian interface available. In addition, it is a freeware program. Let's repeat, classic windows menu 8 has been lost, and not every software is able to correctly recreate a decent version of comfortable functionality. Classic Shell will return your operating system to its former efficiency of management, and in the lower left corner of the screen a traditional windows logo 7, which you can change to a different kind of icon. Immediately after, it will offer at your discretion three classic types of the Start menu. So for those who appreciate the standard, this is simply an indispensable program.

Installation and setup

Installation will not take much time and does not require any explanation whatsoever. Everything is pretty standard and simple. As for the program settings, here the widest prospects open up for the user. Except change appearance start menu for Windows 8, a lover of conservative solutions can resort to various options, using which, you can achieve full compliance with the standard implemented in the seventh OS. At certain settings able to perform various activities. For example, calling the start screen or the traditional entry to the Start menu. However, the user can set any combination of keys to perform certain actions according to the scenario specified by him. A stunning selection of tools will surprise even the skeptic. In the program, you can change everything: sound, graphic design, fine-tune the interface, and add or remove tabs placed in the launch window of applications. Classic Shell is competent in solving such a problem.

Solution #3: Win8StartButton

This is a rather primitive-looking software, but nevertheless the return start button he can do it. Size setup file 400 Kbytes, but, unfortunately, there is no Russian interface. IN this application the preference of those who do not want to part with the newfangled Metro style, but still want to fill the empty space with a nostalgic reminder of the lost Windows Start icon. Worth noting, the only thing that does this software solution useful is the ability to call start menu the eighth OS, however, in a somewhat compressed form. Perhaps some of the users of such software will like it. In any case, such a constructive approach to solving the problem has the right to life.

Solution #4: Start Menu Reviver

It is impossible to leave unnoticed such a truly amazing software. By unknown reasons, this "madness" is considered popular. While the dissatisfied user of the "eight" is in search of ideal solution how to set the start button, Windows 8 are trying to reward the new tiled interface.

Setting up and using Mini Metro

What the user sees after installation is actually the start screen new version Windows phone. Chaotically located tiles of applications, services and services do not lend themselves to any systematization. Of course, the user has the opportunity to eliminate all this, but the question of why to duplicate what the program is designed to save the user from does not lend itself to a logical solution. Perhaps such a strangeness for someone is the desired original solution. In any case, it is up to you to decide whether the program is worth your attention.

Solution #4: Start Menu X

It has long been known and very popular program. The software fit into a compact 4.4 MB, the Russian-language designation is present. Despite the fact that the set of functionality is practically no different from some of the applications presented earlier, nevertheless, the features of originality are quite distinguishable when the user configures given element interface specifically for your purposes using the Windows 8 operating system. Putting the Start button in its rightful place when you use Start Menu X is easy enough. Even a novice user can handle this task quite well.

Setup and use

In order to make the necessary changes in the program, it is enough to right-click once on the icon, which, after installation, takes its natural position in the lower left corner of the screen. The unique design element of the "Start" button is the hero of the popular game Angry Birds. The tweaker has a wide range of customization options as well as a number of optional additions: editing the list of programs in the start menu, disabling the active corners inherent in the G8, changing skins and more. It is worth noting that this the only program of all presented in this review, which will require a reboot of the system after its removal. The program has unique feature- grouping applications, that is, the user can transfer to separate folder programs for the printer, the Internet or multimedia processing. All in all, maximum comfort when using this tweaker you are provided.

Solution #5: Wentutu

Bring back the Start button in Windows 8 this program of course it will help you. However, poor functionality long run applications are a big minus for developers. Connoisseurs of asceticism and thoughtful users by nature will probably like the program.

Solution #6: Power 8

The name speaks for itself! After installing the program, the user is likely to be discouraged by the size of the "Start" button. However, the minimized view of the control lends itself to the zooming process. The main advantage of such a software solution is the original design of the functionality that is missing in the new operating system. The style is as close as possible to Windows 8. The classic Start menu will now look on your computer as a harmonious continuation of the G8 design. Fortunately, the developers have foreseen the moment that it will be more convenient for Russian-speaking users to control the functionality of the program using Cyrillic characters.

Application setup

A poor arsenal of design tools is compensated by a proprietary feature: the Search field now searches not only on local drives, but also in global network Internet. True, there is a somewhat uncomfortable moment: before each search query must be prefixed with a letter. For example, to use Google, you need to type "g". The settings provide for blocking the G8 start screen, and the user is given the opportunity to edit the list of programs displayed in the menu. Everything else is the same as everyone else.

Solution #7: StartIsBack

IN this case set button"Start" in Windows 8 can cost the user money. Yes, you heard right, it is paid program! So what's the excuse for developers? Let's figure it out.

Setting up and using the program

At first glance, the program does not strike anything outstanding. However, with a more detailed acquaintance, everything looks more than perfect. After installing StartIsBack function button organically takes its place without any unnecessary actions and “nudges” from the user. The graphics are just great. Literally every control duplicates to the last detail original menu"Start" of the Windows 7 operating system. Of course, if you want to change the appearance of the launch window or make other types of settings, all this is available to you, as in the case of using this functionality in the seventh OS. If you don't want to give up the advantages of the Metro interface forever, the program offers several types of settings with which you can easily achieve the desired results. Believe me, $ 3, namely the price of software, is priceless comfort in the future. using Windows 8.

Start button

The programs whose descriptions you have read have one common purpose - to return the unfairly seized control to the new operating system. Of course, this review does not present all the ways to transform the Start menu. Nevertheless, the main "leaders" were considered with all the objectivity of an unbiased user. Nevertheless, the Classic Shell program can be considered the most appropriate for its functions. Agree, fully functional and stable free app- enough valuable gift. Full compatibility with all known operating systems from Microsoft Corporation (including version 8.1) put such a program on the highest level in terms of applicability. Download installation distribution from the official site and your problem will be solved.

Alternative

The developers of the "eight" still did their best! The new OS provides the ability to facilitate the laborious process of transition to start screen and back to the desktop. By the way, "Start" for Windows 8 can be done using standard tools. Often mindlessly wandering among colorful Metro tiles in search of desired program can be simply avoided. Below is what needs to be done.

Pseudo menu "Start"

The user of the eighth OS can at any time create a so-called toolbar, which will reflect all the necessary programs. In fact, such a solution is a kind of substitute for the classic "Start" button. If for some reason you do not want to install third-party software and are quite satisfied with the new interface, then the presented option will help you increase your productivity when working with Windows 8 at times. Proceed as follows:

• Right-click on "Taskbar".
• From the drop-down menu, select "Panels" - "Create ... tools".
• In the "Folders" checkbox, paste: %ProgramData%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs.
• After you click on the "Select ..." button located just below, a toolbar with the ambiguous name Programs will appear in the tray.

Now you can always produce operational launch necessary program or applications that are installed on your computer. And let it not be a problem for you that the Windows 8 Start button has disappeared, in any case, you will appreciate such convenience as unhindered access to installed software through the new toolbar.

Perhaps you are lucky!

If you are using pre-release version eight, and in particular the Developer Preview, then you are just lucky. The fact is that in this operational product there is such a classic control element as standard button"Start". All you have to do is change some values ​​in the registry. Be careful when working in special editor, since incorrectly entered parameters can affect the stability and performance of the system as a whole.

Button return process

In order to return the Start button for Windows 8, you need to do the following:

• Press the Win + R key combination to call the Run utility.
• At the prompt, enter the regedit command.
• After you enter the registry editor, follow the path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer.
• After that, in the right part of the window, click on the item RPEnabled.
• Select Modifi from the context menu, and in the next window (in the Value Data checkbox) change the value from "1" to "0". Do not forget to confirm your actions with the "OK" button.

After rebooting the operating system, you will be pleasantly surprised by the original functionality of the Start menu.

Finally

Perhaps some of you, in the process of familiarizing yourself with this material, thought a little about why all these torments are needed, if you can install the "seven" and not fool yourself. Perhaps you are right. However, the predecessor of the eighth OS is significantly inferior in all respects to the new operating system. This is the only reason why the absolute majority of desktop users need the Start button in Windows 8 so much. Let's not forget that many developers are focusing on new operating systems. In other words, all their efforts and professional research will somehow be directed towards the prospects of their development. Thus, whether we like it or not, in order to stay on the "wave of unlimited possibilities", we should still opt for the G8. However, it is quite possible that for some PC users such warnings will seem completely uncritical in order to do something right now and immediately. Therefore, to each his own.

Do you know how to start in windows 8.1 like in windows 7? Today we will consider this topic and let's talk about how to return the menu we are used to using a small program.

How to make a start in windows 8.1 like in windows 7: workarounds

In order to make a standard Start menu for windows 8, 10, we need the CSSM program - Classic Shell Start Menu.

Downloading this utility in Russian, for this, follow this link, the official website of the program is Classic Shell

Classic Shell Start Menu: about the program

This utility is free software, does not contain annoying advertisements, as well as in latest version was implemented full support for Windows 10.

PROGRAM INSTALLATION:

After you have downloaded the program, run the installer. Next, follow the instructions in the new window, agree with all the points, as shown in the screenshots.

After you have installed Classic Shell Start Menu. The first time you launch the Start menu, an additional dialog box will appear with settings for the program. So, Start -> Settings, then - as in the screenshot.

WINDOWS 7 STYLE MENU:

With the help of this program, standard window start menu. It also supports the choice Aero effect which gives a natural style. The latest version of the program added the ability to hide Recent Documents. Name change from "My Computer" to your name is supported.

These settings can be made using Start - Settings. Now go to the Cover tab and customize everything we want. If you want to add or remove anything from the Start menu, go to the Start Menu Settings tab. Next, save the changes.

I hope that now it is not difficult for you to ask how to start in windows 8.1 like in windows 7. If necessary, you can change the settings, experiment. If these changes are not enough for you, you can expand the settings database by just ticking the “Show all parameters” checkbox, and new tabs will open in front of you, such as: Main menu, Search field, Management and many others.

When developing Windows 8, Microsoft relied on gesture control and a new user interface Metro. Neither one nor the other was to the liking of the users. In Windows 8.1, the Start button is back, but with a different behavior and no start menu. The interface has become clearer, but many users still prefer the classics. How to replace the Start button on Windows 8 in order to return the system to its usual look, you will learn from this material.

Bring back the full start menu standard means it is forbidden. Microsoft did not leave us such an opportunity. Nevertheless, you can configure its likeness, which allows you to do without switching to the "tiled" interface.

1. We use the present in all versions Windows opportunity create new panel tools. Click on the icon-free area of ​​the existing taskbar to bring up the context menu. Go as shown in the screenshot and select the "Create" option.

1. In the text box, type "shell: Common Programs". Click the "Select Folder" button.

1. The taskbar will show new area"Programs".

1. By clicking on the double arrow, we can display the list shown in the screenshot. It includes user-installed and operating system utilities.

1. To disable the created panel and remove the control area, you must again turn to the context menu. An additional item will appear in it, marked with a checkmark. By removing it, we will make the panel that is no longer needed disappear.

You can’t call such a solution a full-fledged replacement for the Start button, but fast access to installed programs it provides.

Programs for changing the interface

The lack of the ability to change anything in the operating system by standard means pushes developers third-party software. In the case of Windows 8, this concerns the return of the classic Start button. There are a lot of programs that allow you to perform this operation, so we have selected only those worthy of attention.

pokki

Developers have several approaches to changing the OS interface. Someone is trying to completely replace existing menu, and someone to bring additional functionality to the system.

1. After installation, Pokki offers to place another button next to the system button, which is responsible for calling the software menu.

1. The settings of the program are quite flexible. Can be changed color scheme, specify preferred folders for the navigation area, and select the appearance of the icon.

1. Stars next to applications allow you to mark them as favorites. As a result, the icon is copied to home page providing quick access.

1. By default, only the icon is placed on the "Favorites" page. own store applications.

1. For quick installation Various popular apps and games.

The application is developed by IoBit, whose main product is Advanced SystemCare.

1. The program is shareware with a monthly trial period, as the activation button in the settings field reminds of. During installation, users are prompted to select an icon to display. The standard one should disappear and change to the one selected from the set.

1. On the "Style" tab, you can choose the appearance. Enable Start menu like in Windows 7 or customize Modern UI to your liking. Transparency is adjusted in wide range. If desired, the main window can be made transparent so that the desktop is visible.

1. The rest of the settings tabs allow you to fine-tune the look, customizing it to the user's needs.

1. The Modern UI block contains the parameters of the "tiled" interface. Can turn off hot corners and wonder bar to make the look more like classic versions OS.

1. As a result, the Start button for Windows 8 will work in a different mode. The control area takes on an almost standard look for previous editions.

1. The right mouse button, which allowed you to call the Power User area, opens Start settings Menu. To go to system management must be pressed hot Win keys+ X .

1. The fact that within a month you need to decide on a purchase and receive a license code, the user will be reminded by the always active red button. Remove the program to restore system defaults You can use the marked item.

The settings documentation is available as a web help at English language. This is not a problem, since everything is framed in the form of detailed instructions.

Classic Shell

The latter program is completely free. Classic Shell has the richest settings and is fully localized for Russian-speaking users.

1. On initial stage the user can select the components that he wants to put in the system.

1. At the end of the installation, a full Russian help for all program parameters opens.

1. By checking the box indicated by the frame, the user opens the full settings menu. Here you can change everything, from the appearance to the voice acting of events. The shell allows you to add additional custom sounds to the main scheme used by Windows.

1. A separate tab is responsible for interaction settings with Metro live tiles. Active corners you can make the abyss completely or leave them only on the home screen.

1. Classic Shell lets you do the basics system menu perfectly similar to Windows 7 and at the same time use the system colors that match the selected window decoration.

For flexibility, the program is appreciated not only by users. In Parallels Desktop, developers offer to install it immediately at the time of setup virtual machine with Windows 8. You can find and download Classic Shell from the link below. Unfortunately, the creator of the shell in December announced the termination of work on the project. Source posted in Free access and can be used under a free license.

Finally

As you can see, the task is quite within the power of any user. Software settings interfaces allow you to use Windows 8 as a system more modern than the "seven", and at the same time be in a familiar environment with a classic control menu.

Video instruction

In the videos below, you can clearly see how to install programs to replace the Start button.

Classic Shell- free program to return the original look of the classic Start menu in Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7 operating systems, Windows Vista. The program changes the visual display of elements of the Windows operating system for more convenient use.

Many users experience inconvenience when using the Start menu due to the fact that Windows developer, Microsoft company permanently changes the settings, options, and appearance of the Start menu.

Therefore, many users want to return the classic Start menu for Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8 operating systems. Windows system 7 users change the appearance of the Start menu in the style of the Windows XP operating system.

Free Classic program shell returns classic look Start menu, allows you to make extensive settings for displaying styles, options and appearance of the start menu.

The Classic Shell program consists of three components:

• Classic Start Menu - the return of the classic Start menu
• Classic Explorer - Adding a Toolbar to Windows Explorer
• Classic IE - customization of panels in the browser Internet Explorer

In this article, we will look at the operation of the Classic Start Menu component, which allows you to make the old Start menu in the Windows operating system. Not all users need other program components.

The Classic Shell program works in Russian. You can download the Classic Shell program from the official website of the developer. On the download page, select the "Classic Shell x.x.x (Russian)" file to download to your computer.

Classic Shell Installation

Installation of the Classic Shell program takes place in Russian and does not cause difficulties. Step through the windows of the Classic Shell installation wizard.

In the "Custom Installation" window, you must select the application components to be installed on your computer. By default, all components are selected for installation.

We want to bring back the classic Start Menu, so we only need to keep the Classic Start Menu and Classic Shell Update components (for automatic updates).

The "Classic Explorer" and "Classic IE" components change the appearance of the Explorer and Internet browser Explorer, and not all users need such changes. Therefore, disable the installation of these components.

Classic Shell for Windows 10

After left clicking on the start menu, you will see the classic start menu in Windows style 7 installed on the Windows 10 operating system. This is what the Start menu looks like with default settings.

The classic Start menu for Windows 8.1 or Windows 8 will look similar.

Customizing the Classic Shell

After installing the application, the "Classic Start Menu Options" window will open. In this window, you can configure all program parameters.

You can change the Classic Shell settings at any time. To do this, right-click on the "Start" menu, and select "Settings" from the context menu.

In the Start Menu Style tab, you can select classic style for the Start menu in the style of Windows XP or Windows 7 operating systems.

At default settings, the standard Start button is displayed on the Desktop. Instead of the button image from the operating system, you can install the image from Classic Shell (two options) or add your own own image if you have a similar picture.

By default, the main settings in the program are made in the tabs: "Start menu style", "General settings", Cover, "Start menu customization".

Check the box next to "Show all options" to configure other options in the Classic Shell program.

After that, it will become available additional settings in the tabs: "Menu View", "Start Button", "Taskbar", " Windows Settings 10", " Context menu”, “Sounds”, “Language”, “Controls”, “Main Menu”, “ General behavior”, “Search field”.

Although the program is optimally configured by default, the user can independently change the application settings to suit his needs by experimenting with the settings. To do this, select the settings, see what happened after changing them. If it turns out that you went a little too far with the changes in the parameters, you can return the default settings of the program.

In the app settings you can hide unnecessary features, change the display of items and icons, rearrange items, remove items from the Start menu.

To do this, select an element, select a command and display. After right clicking on desired element, select additional functions.

In the Cover tab, you can choose a cover for the standard Start menu. By default, Windows 10 uses the "Metro" skin. You can choose other covers: Windows Aero”, “Metallic”, “Midnight” or “Windows 8”, the minimalist version of “Classic Skin” or the “No Cover” option.

The Classic Shell parameter settings can be saved to an XML file in order to load the settings from this file on a new installation of the Classic Shell program. To do this, use the "Archive parameters" button, select desired option: "Save to XML file" or "Load from XML file". To reset the program settings to default, select "Reset all settings".

Removing Classic Shell

The Classic Shell program is uninstalled in a standard way. If the program was not uninstalled correctly, or there were some problems during the uninstallation process, use special utility, which can be downloaded from here.

Conclusion

The free Classic Shell program installs an alternative (former classic) Start menu on the Windows operating system. After installing the program on a computer, the user can return the classic look of the Start menu in Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, make other changes to the appearance and settings of the start menu.