Windows 8: Restore the Start button - how to do it

The Windows 8 user interface is primarily designed for the tablet and other devices with a touchscreen. Accordingly, the familiar Start menu including the Start button is missing. However, it is possible to restore the Start button and the classic Start menu with the help of software.

How to restore the Start button in Windows 8

The Start menu and Start button have completely disappeared in Windows 8. Initially, the classic look could still be restored via a change in the registry, but this no longer works. If you want to bring back the familiar Start menu including Start button, this can only be done with the help of additional software.

• With the tool Start8, you can quickly and easily restore the familiar Start button from Windows 7. Note, however, that the free version of Start8 is limited in time. If you want to use the software permanently, you have to buy it for 5.99 euros on the developer website.
• Alternatively, you can use the free tool Classic Shell. Classic Shell not only allows you to restore the classic Start menu and Start button, but also offers a selection of different designs. In addition, Classic Shell also gives you the option to completely disable the Windows 8 tile interface.
• Another free option is the ViStart software. Like Start8 or Classic Shell, ViStart allows you to restore the Start button and Start menu. When installing ViStart, make sure not to install the browser toolbar and the other plugins as well.