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Introduction
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Windows 8 was a major change from its predecessor, bringing a brand-new interface with it that was initially confusing for users. The biggest change was the removal of the Start menu, which had been a staple in every Windows OS edition until that point. The Start menu’s absence was a controversial design decision that led to a lot of backlash from users, who found it difficult to navigate the OS without this essential feature. However, it is possible to restore the Start menu in Windows 8, and that is the focus of this article.
What’s Needed
Before we begin, it is essential to ensure that you have the following tools installed:
- A Windows 8 device or a computer running Windows 8;
- An internet connection;
- A reliable web browser;
- The Classic Shell Start menu restoration software.
What Requires Your Focus?
This guide requires your undivided attention to ensure that you follow the steps correctly.
Different Methods to Have Start Menu on Windows 8
Here are the five methods to restore/start the Start menu on Windows 8:
Method 1: Installing Classic Shell Software Via Classicshell.net Website
If you are looking for a free and effective Start menu restoration software, Classic Shell should be on your list. Follow the steps below to install Classic Shell via the Classicshell.net website:
1. Open your web browser and go to classicshell.net;
2. Click on the “Download” link on the homepage;
3. Choose the version of Classic Shell that is compatible with your Windows 8 device;
4. Once the download is complete, open the .exe file;
5. Follow the installation prompts to install Classic Shell;
6. Once the installation is complete, restart your computer.
Pros:
– Free of charge software.
– Simple and user-friendly interface.
– Plenty of customization options available.
Cons:
– May not be compatible with older versions of Windows.
– May slow down older computers due to higher resource consumption.
Method 2: Installing Start Menu Reviver Via Startmenureviver.com Website
Start Menu Reviver is a Start menu replacement software that can restore the Start menu on your Windows 8 device. Here are the steps to follow when installing Start Menu Reviver:
1. Open your web browser and go to startmenureviver.com;
2. Click on the “Download Start Menu Reviver” button to initiate the download;
3. Choose the version of Start Menu Reviver that is compatible with your Windows 8 device;
4. Once the download is complete, open the .exe file;
5. Follow the installation prompts to install Start Menu Reviver;
6. Once the installation is complete, restart your computer.
Pros:
– Highly customizable with plenty of options.
– Offers both free and paid versions.
– User-friendly interface.
Cons:
– May slow down older computers due to higher resource consumption.
– May not be free for all of the features.
Method 3: Installing Pokki Via Pokki.com Website
Pokki is a free software that can replace the Start menu on your Windows 8 device. To install it:
1. Open your web browser and go to pokki.com;
2. Click on the “Download Pokki” button to initiate the download;
3. Choose the version of Pokki that is compatible with your Windows 8 device;
4. Once the download is complete, open the .exe file;
5. Follow the installation prompts to install Pokki;
6. Once the installation is complete, restart your computer.
Pros:
– User-friendly interface.
– Integration with other apps and online services.
– Free of charge software.
Cons:
– May slow down older computers due to higher resource consumption.
– Requires an internet connection for some features.
Method 4: Installing ViStart Via Lee-soft.com Website
ViStart is a free Start menu restoration software that has been developed with Windows 8 in mind. Here are the steps to follow to install ViStart:
1. Open your web browser and go to lee-soft.com/ViStart/Windows-8-Start-Menu.html;
2. Click on the “Download” button to initiate the download;
3. Choose the version of ViStart that is compatible with your Windows 8 device;
4. Once the download is complete, open the .exe file;
5. Follow the installation prompts to install ViStart;
6. Once the installation is complete, restart your computer.
Pros:
– Free of charge software.
– Faster than some other software.
– Simple to use.
Cons:
– Limited customization options.
– May not be compatible with all Windows versions.
Method 5: Installing Start8 Via Startdock.com Website
Start8 is a software that restores the Start menu to your Windows 8 device. Here are the steps to install it:
1. Open your web browser and go to startdock.com/products/start8/;
2. Click on the “Download” button to initiate the download;
3. Choose the version of Start8 that is compatible with your Windows 8 device;
4. Once the download is complete, open the .exe file;
5. Follow the installation prompts to install Start8;
6. Once the installation is complete, restart your computer.
Pros:
– Offers customizable Start menu options.
– User-friendly interface.
– Integration with other Startdock software.
Cons:
– Requires payment to access all features.
– May not be compatible with all Windows versions.
Why Can’t I Have Start Menu on Windows 8?
There could be several reasons why you are having difficulty restoring the Start menu to your Windows 8 device. Here are some of the most common reasons and how to fix them:
1. Corrupted operating system files: If your Windows 8 operating system files are corrupted, restoring the Start menu may not be possible. You can try running the System File Checker (SFC) tool to repair your system files. To run the SFC tool, open Command Prompt as an administrator, then type "sfc /scannow," and press the Enter key;
2. Incompatible software: Some Start menu restoration software is not compatible with all versions of Windows, so be sure to check compatibility before installing;
3. System updates: If you have not updated your Windows 8 device in a while, some essential updates may be missing. Check for updates and install them before attempting to restore the Start menu.
Implications and Recommendations
Here are some recommendations to consider when restoring the Start menu on your Windows 8 device:
1. Take care when choosing which restoration software to use as some may compromise your computer’s security;
2. Be sure to check compatibility before installing;
3. Be cautious of free software, as some may come with adware or other unwanted software.
5 FAQs about Having Start Menu on Windows 8
Q1: How can I customize my Start menu?
A: Most Start menu restoration software allows users to customize the look and feel of their menu. Users can change the background color, font styles, and add or remove shortcuts.
Q2: Is it possible to use different Start menu restoration software simultaneously?
A: While it is possible to have multiple Start menu restoation software on your device, running multiple programs can slow down your computer.
Q3: Can I restore the Start menu without installing additional software?
A: No, it is not possible to restore the Start menu on Windows 8 OS without additional software installation.
Q4: What if my Windows 8 is still not working after trying these methods?
A: Contact technical support or seek a professional technician for assistance.
Q5: Will restoring the Start menu impact the performance of my computer?
A: Yes, restoring the Start menu may slow down your computer, particularly if you are using an older device. It is recommended to check compatibility and system requirements before installing any software.
Final Words
Restoring the Start menu on your Windows 8 device is possible and can be very useful for easy navigation. Ensure to choose an option suitable for your device, check compatibility, and run system updates.