The Start menu presents a searchable list of programs alongside familiar links such as Documents, Settings, Help, and Run. Classic Shell lets you choose a classic single-column or two-column layout, or a Windows 7-style menu, then adjust which functions appear.
Choose a Start menu layout
Classic Shell replaces the standard Start menu with a menu organized around familiar program and system links. Its available layouts include a classic single-column menu, a two-column classic menu, and a Windows 7-style menu. Search is built into the menu, so you can look for programs and other items without browsing the full list.
The Configuration window lets you turn menu functions on or off and customize the menus. You can tailor the links and controls to the way you navigate, while keeping the selected menu layout in place.
Add controls to File Explorer
The Classic Explorer component adds a toolbar to Windows Explorer with controls such as Up for moving to the parent folder. It also provides familiar file-management buttons, including cut, copy, paste, delete, and Properties. These commands sit in the Explorer window, close to the folders and files they affect.
- Use the Up button to move to the containing folder.
- Access common file commands from the added toolbar.
Customize Internet Explorer and menu details
Classic Shell also includes Classic IE, an Internet Explorer component that adds a toolbar and options for changing parts of the browser interface. In the Start menu settings, you can adjust which features are enabled; the menu can also be configured to show or hide functions such as Help and Run.
The separate components let you choose which parts of Classic Shell to use. Someone focused on the Start menu can configure that menu without relying on Explorer or Internet Explorer controls.
Pros
- Offers three Start menu layouts, including a Windows 7-style option
- Search and links to programs, documents, settings, Help, and Run
- Classic Explorer adds toolbar controls and an Up button
Can I choose a different Start menu style?
Yes. Classic Shell offers classic single-column, classic two-column, and Windows 7-style layouts.
What does Classic Explorer add?
It adds an Explorer toolbar with an Up button and common file commands such as copy, paste, delete, and Properties.
Can I turn off Start menu functions I do not use?
Yes. The Configuration window lets you enable or disable menu functions and adjust the menu links.