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How to get the Start menu back in Windows 8


Still miss the classic Start menu in Windows 8? Never fear, alternatives are here.

Microsoft lopped off the Start menu in Windows 8 to force people to use the Start screen. And I'll admit it, the Start screen does offers several benefits.

Live Tiles can clue you in to the latest e-mails, appointments, news, and other information. You can easily search for any app, setting, or file just by typing its name.

But I still find the folder-structured Start menu the quickest and easiest way to launch any application when I'm already working in the desktop.

Those of you who'd like the old menu back, at least as an option, can choose from a range of Start menu replacements. Most are free or at least offer a free version. Many go beyond just replicating the Start menu by letting you customize their look and feel.