Win8Menu vs. Other Start Menu Alternatives: Which Is Best?

How to Install and Customize Win8Menu on Your PC

Overview

Win8Menu is a Start menu replacement for Windows 8 that restores a familiar, Windows 7–style Start menu while preserving modern features. This guide walks through downloading, installing, and customizing Win8Menu so you can get a clean, efficient Start experience.

Before you begin

• Compatibility: Assumes Windows 8 or 8.1.
• Backup: Create a system restore point or backup important data before installing system utilities.

Step 1 — Download Win8Menu

1. Visit the official Win8Menu download page or the developer’s site.
2. Choose the latest stable build and download the installer executable (.exe).
3. Verify the file size and digital signature if provided.

Step 2 — Install Win8Menu

1. Double-click the downloaded installer to run it.
2. If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), choose Yes to allow changes.
3. Follow the installer steps:
   • Accept the license agreement.
   • Choose installation folder (default is fine for most users).
   • Pick any optional components (e.g., Start menu skins, additional plugins).
4. Finish the installation and allow the program to apply changes. A restart may be recommended—restart if prompted.

Step 3 — Set Win8Menu as the default Start menu

1. After installation, Win8Menu typically replaces the Windows 8 Start screen automatically.
2. If it doesn’t, open Win8Menu settings:
   • Right-click the Start button (or the currently active Start replacement) and choose Settings or Options.
   • Find an option labeled Set as default Start menu and enable it.
3. Sign out and back in or reboot if the change doesn’t apply immediately.

Step 4 — Basic customization

1. Open Win8Menu settings from the Start button or the system tray icon.
2. Common configurable items:
   • Menu style: Choose classic, two-column, or compact layouts.
   • Skin/theme: Pick from available color schemes or skins.
   • Start button: Change icon or use a custom image.
   • Search behavior: Toggle integrated search or point it to Windows Search/Cortana.
   • Show/hide items: Enable or disable user folder links, control panel, documents, and recently used apps.

Step 5 — Pinning and organizing entries

1. Pin frequently used apps by right-clicking an app and selecting Pin to Start or Pin to Win8Menu.