When Windows 8 was first released, many users were taken aback by the absence of the traditional Start button that had been a staple in all previous versions of the operating system. The removal of this beloved feature caused quite a stir among Windows users who were used to having quick access to their programs and settings. However, with the release of Windows 8.1, Microsoft reintroduced the Start button, albeit with a slightly different functionality. If you are one of the many users who miss having the Start button on your Windows 8 computer, fret not! In this article, we will guide you on how to put the Start button back on your Windows 8 device.
1. Update to Windows 8.1:
Before you can enjoy the Start button, you must first ensure that you have upgraded your Windows 8 operating system to Windows 8.1. This update is free and can be easily downloaded from the Windows Store. Simply search for the update in the store, click on it, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
2. Adjust the Taskbar properties:
Once you have updated to Windows 8.1, you can start customizing your Start button. Right-click on the taskbar located at the bottom of your screen and select “Properties” from the context menu. This will open the Taskbar and Navigation Properties window.
3. Customize Start button settings:
In the Taskbar and Navigation Properties window, navigate to the “Navigation” tab. Here, you will find various settings related to the Start button. To enable the Start button, make sure the checkbox next to “Show the Start button” is checked. You can also choose to boot directly to the desktop instead of the Start screen by selecting the appropriate checkbox.
4. Personalize your Start button:
After enabling the Start button, you can personalize its appearance. Click on the “Customize” button next to the Start button options. This will open the Customize Start Menu window, where you can choose the icons you want to display on your Start menu. You can also decide whether to show recently opened programs or jump lists.
5. Install a third-party Start button tool:
If you are not satisfied with the Start button provided by Windows 8.1, there are third-party tools available that offer a more traditional Start button experience. One popular tool is Classic Shell, which allows you to customize the Start button and menu to resemble those from previous Windows versions.
6. Explore alternative Start menu replacements:
In addition to third-party tools, several software developers have created alternative Start menu replacements for Windows 8. These replacements mimic the classic Start menu while offering additional features and customization options. Some notable examples include StartIsBack, Start10, and Open Shell.
7. Get acquainted with the new Start button:
Although the Start button in Windows 8.1 brings back some of the familiar functionality, it is important to note that it does not behave in exactly the same way as its predecessors. Instead of opening a full-screen Start menu, it simply takes you back to the Start screen. However, by adjusting the settings mentioned earlier, you can still make it more reminiscent of the classic Start button experience.
In conclusion, getting the Start button back on your Windows 8 device is a relatively simple process. With the advent of Windows 8.1, Microsoft introduced a modified version of the Start button along with various customization options. However, if you prefer a more traditional Start menu interface, there are third-party tools and software replacements available. Whether you choose to stick with the default Windows 8.1 Start button or opt for a different solution, rest assured that you can still navigate your computer with ease and access all the programs and settings you need.