How to return to the classic menu in Windows 11

The launch of Windows 11 has brought with it significant changes to the user interface, including a redesign of the Start menu. While many people have welcomed this new aesthetic, other users are feeling a certain nostalgia and prefer the classic menu offered by previous versions of Windows, such as Windows 10 and Windows 7.

If this is your case, you are in the right place. Here we tell you how you can get back the classic menu in Windows 11 using operating system settings and third-party applications. In addition, we will address the necessary precautions to avoid problems when customizing the interface.

Why did Microsoft change the Start menu?

The change in the position and design of the Start menu responds to the Actual trends in the format of the screens. Microsoft argues that keeping the Start button on the left of the screen, as in previous models, was designed for monitors with a 4:3 format. However, today the 16:9 format predominates, and placing the menu in the center is considered more productive, since it minimizes the user's movements when locating it.

The new Start menu in Windows 11 is divided into two main sections: one for pinned apps and another for recommendations. It also includes shortcuts to “All apps” and the power button. While it is functional, many prefer the familiarity of the classic versions.

How to move the Start menu to the left?

While the classic menu itself isn't available natively, you can move the Start menu from the center to the left for a more Windows 10-like feel. To do so, follow these steps:

• Right-click on the taskbar and select "Taskbar Settings".
• Access the option «Taskbar behavior».
• Look for the section «Taskbar alignment» and select “Left”.

With this change, the Start menu will be located in its traditional position, although it will still have the Windows 11 design.

Precautions before customizing Windows 11

Modifying interface elements, such as the Start menu, may involve certain risks If not done correctly, it is advisable to take the following measures before proceeding:

• Create a restore point: This will allow you to revert any changes if something goes wrong. To do so, type "Recovery" in the search box on the taskbar and follow the instructions to create a restore point.
• Backup the registry: If you plan to modify the Windows registry, make a backup to avoid serious problems.

With these precautions, you can experiment with applications and settings without fear of damaging your system.

Bring back the classic menu using third-party applications

For those users who want a visual experience identical to the classic menu, there are third-party tools that allow this customization. Below, we explain the most notable ones:

Open shell

Open Shell, formerly known as Classic Shell, is a free software open source Start menu that mimics the classic Start menu. You can customize it in several styles, such as the basic Windows XP menu, the classic two-column menu, or the Windows 7 menu.

To install Open Shell, follow these steps:

• Access its repository on GitHub and download the installation file (.exe).
• Run the installer and select the desired components. The most important is «Open Shell Menu».
• Configure your preferred menu style and select a custom look from the skin options.

Open Shell also allows you to replace the Home button and adjust other aesthetic settings.

StartAllBack

StartAllBack is a paid option with a 30-day free trial. In addition to bringing back the classic menu, it allows you to customize the taskbar and the file explorer.

StartAllBack's main features include:

• Different menu styles, like Windows 7 and Windows 10.
• Advanced customization options such as large icons and custom colors.

Start11

Start11, developed by Stardock, offers a friendly interface to bring back the classic menu. Although it is another paid software, it has a free trial version and is ideal for those looking for a menu similar to that of Windows 7.

Its features include:

• Changing menu and taskbar styles.
• Possibility to change the Home button to a classic one.

Modify registry to enable classic menu

Another way to get the classic menu back is by modifying the Windows registry. This method is a bit more technical, but it doesn't require any special training. install additional software. Follow these steps:

• Press Win+R, writes regedit and hit Enter.
• Navigate to the key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER \ Software \ Microsoft \ Windows \ CurrentVersion \ Explorer \ Advanced.
• Creates a new DWORD (32-bit) value named Start_ShowClassicMode and assign it the value 1.
• Restart the computer to apply the changes.

Getting the classic menu back in Windows 11 can be as simple as installing third-party software or as technical as modifying the system registry. Whatever your preferred method, you now have all the options tools and knowledge to give your computer that nostalgic touch again without losing the functionality offered by Microsoft's latest operating system.