Do you miss the look and feel of the classic Start menu on your Windows PC? Whether you’re using a legacy system like Windows 7 or have upgraded to Windows 11, the good news is you can bring back the familiar layout with the help of a third-party app: Open-Shell.
While Windows 7 introduced a modern look and useful features in its time, many users still longed for the simplicity and familiarity of earlier Start menus from Windows 95, 98, and XP. Despite no longer being supported by Microsoft as of January 2020—meaning no software updates, no technical assistance, and no security fixes—Windows 7 remains in use for specific tasks and legacy software, and enhancing its functionality is still possible with the right tools. On the other hand, Windows 11 brings a sleeker, more app-focused interface with a centered taskbar and a redesigned Start menu, which, while modern, isn’t everyone’s preference. For those who value a more intuitive, old-school navigation experience, there are ways to bring back the classic Start menu look on both systems.
In this updated guide, we’ll walk you through the best tools and steps to get the classic Start menu experience on both Windows 7 and Windows 11. Whether you aim for aesthetics or simply want quicker access to your programs and settings, we have you covered.
When users talk about the classic Start menu, they usually refer to one of two layouts. The first is the minimalist, single-panel menu found in Windows 95 and 98, offering a straightforward and easy-to-navigate system. The second is the Windows XP version, which introduced a two-column layout that offered quicker access to documents, settings, and commonly used programs. Both styles are appreciated for their simplicity, efficiency, and nostalgic charm, making them a favorite among users who prefer function over flair.
Open-Shell, formerly known as Classic Shell, is the best and easiest way to recreate the classic Start menu. Open-Shell is a free open-source program created to bring back previous features that were removed in later versions of Windows. It allows you to choose from a few different Start menu options, which include the classic menu resembling Windows 95 and 98, the classic menu with two columns known as XP-style, and options to make changes on your Windows 7 or 11. You’ll get to choose from different menu styles, tweak how it looks, and even control what shows up in the menu, giving you full control over your setup.
Installing Open-Shell is quick and easy, but depending on the Windows version you’re working with, there are a few slight differences in how it behaves once it’s set up. Here is how to get started on both systems.
To get started, download the latest version of Open-Shell from its official GitHub page. Once the download is done, follow the standard installation prompt. Once it’s ready, right-click the Start button and select Settings to begin customizing. From there, you can choose your preferred layout option. For the menu look, choose either the classic style or the classic “version” with two columns.
Since the OS still uses a traditional shell, Open-Shell will work seamlessly on Windows 7 without causing compatibility issues.
The steps for Windows 11 are almost identical. Go to the official Open-Shell GitHub page. Download the installer and run through the setup. Once installed, open the Settings and choose your preferred layout, just like Windows 7.
The main difference here is how it functions. Windows 11 doesn’t allow full Shell replacements, so Open-Shell adds its own Start menu rather than removing the built-in one. Depending on your configuration, it will show up when you click the Start button. In some cases, the default Windows 11 menu may still be present, but you can unpin or hide it, or make a few changes to make Open-Shell feel fully integrated.
The newly installed classic Start menu will work great on Windows 11, running alongside the interface rather than replacing it entirely.
Whether you want nostalgia, ease of use, or something that just makes more sense, there’s no reason to settle for a Start menu that doesn’t work for you. Open-Shell makes bringing back the classic Start menu you know and love easy. Whether using Windows 7 or 11, you can keep your Start menu clean, simple, and functional. Going back to basics has never been easier!
