StartIsBack

StartIsBack

StartIsBack download for free to PC or mobile


Upgrade to Windows 8 without losing the classic Start menu with StartIsBack. This user-friendly application restores the familiar Start button and menu, making your transition seamless. Simply install StartIsBack, and the Start button returns as if it never left. You can still access the Metro desktop, but it's no longer a necessity. StartIsBack doesn't just bring back the Start menu; it also makes all your programs easily accessible, just like before. Fully customizable, this tool lets you adjust the menu to fit your preferences. Enjoy the best of Windows 8's new features while keeping the classic functionality you love.


05 Jun 2024
Title StartIsBack
Size 1.4 MB
Price free of charge
Category Applications
Developer Stanislav Zinukhov
System Windows
1.4 MB
3

779 reviews
2749

downloads
The content of games with a PEGI 3 rating is considered suitable for all age groups. The game should not contain any sounds or pictures that are likely to frighten young children. A very mild form of violence (in a comical context or a childlike setting) is acceptable. No bad language should be heard.

Equivalent to E (low end) and EC (which is no longer used). 435 titles were rated PEGI 3 in 2020.
PEGI Rating

StartIsBack installation

download

Click on the Download button to start downloading StartIsBack for Windows from Maombi.com

open

Open the .exe installation file in the Downloads folder and double click it

props

Follow the instructions in the pop-up window to install StartIsBack on Windows Desktop

run

Now you can open and run StartIsBack on your PC

StartIsBack Features

StartIsBack is the ultimate solution for bringing back the classic Windows Start Menu to your desktop. With its sleek design and customizable features, you can easily access your favorite programs, settings, and files with just a click. Say goodbye to the confusing Windows 10 layout and hello to a familiar and user-friendly interface. Experience the best of both worlds with StartIsBack.

Customizable Start Menu

Easily customize your Start Menu with various styles, colors, and layouts to suit your preferences.

Taskbar Tweaks

Enhance your taskbar with additional features such as pinned programs, jump lists, and system tray icons.

Live Badges

Receive real-time notifications and updates on your pinned apps directly on the Start Menu tiles.

Start Button Customization

Personalize your Start button with different icons, sizes, and animations for a unique look.

Taskbar Transparency

Adjust the transparency level of your taskbar to seamlessly blend with your desktop background.

Start Menu Search

Quickly search for files, apps, and settings directly from the Start Menu for easy access.

StartIsBack overview

  • slide for 1

    01

    The application lets you choose the style of the Start menu and Start button, offering several visual options. You can download additional Start button orbs from DeviantART. There are also appearance options: disable transparency for the Start menu and taskbar, hide the user account picture and the Start button, and show All Programs as a drop-down menu in the Windows XP style.

  • slide for 2

    02

    Configure switching rules with this app. When you sign in, the desktop is shown; pressing the Windows key displays the Start menu, and pressing Ctrl + Windows shows the Start screen. Closing modern apps returns you to the last-used environment. Set up screen corners to perform special actions, such as showing the Charms bar in the upper-right corner.

  • slide for 3

    03

    Make your desktop more convenient with this app! Press the Windows key on your keyboard or the Start button to open the menu. Pressing Ctrl and the Windows key together, or clicking the Start button with the mouse wheel, will open the Start screen. Right-click the Start menu and select Properties to customize the menu and other useful features. Configure the app now!

  • slide for 4

    04

    Customize Start menu items and behavior with this app. Enable or disable displaying apps in the "All Programs" menu or on the Start menu. Configure search in other files and libraries, as well as in Programs and Control Panel. Choose how to display your personal folder and Downloads. Specify the number of recent programs and set the power button action. Simple, convenient controls for maximum personalization.

  • slide for 5

    05

    The application offers convenient settings to optimize your Windows experience. You can organize the Start screen, combine the Win+X context menu with the Start menu, and configure how recently opened programs and items are stored and displayed. The app supports taskbar and Start menu animations and also lets you customize monitor corner behavior.

  • slide for 6

    06

    This app restores the classic "Start" menu in Windows, making it convenient and intuitive. It includes quick access to Google Chrome, Calculator, Paint, Adobe Photoshop CS6, and other programs. It offers convenient search for programs and files, as well as the ability to customize the Control Panel and devices. Support for multiple languages and ease of use make this app indispensable for any user.

Updates and reviews about StartIsBack

12 Dec 2025

December Update Breaks StartIsBack on Windows 10

KB5071546 impacts StartIsBack on Windows 10, leading to desktop issues. Users face challenges like explorer crashes and UI lags.

Read more
StartIsBack

Download StartIsBack

StartIsBack reviews

Update: 02 Jan 2026

Henry Wright

I had a pretty good experience with StartIsBack. It’s nice to finally have a Start menu I like again. The customization options are a plus. Just wish there were a few more themes to play around with. Overall a solid app!


Ethan Green

Can I just say amazing?! StartIsBack is everything I needed and more! Love how I can customize the menu and add my fave shortcuts. It really saves me time and keeps me organized. This is hands down a must-have!


Olivia Young

Really enjoying StartIsBack! The classic Start menu layout is just what I needed. It makes it easier for me to find my programs. I found a small hiccup with updates, but it didn’t ruin the experience. Good job!


Jackson Lewis

I’m in LOVE with StartIsBack! It revived my old Windows experience and I couldn’t be happier! The ease of use is incredible, and having the classic feel again while working is priceless! Don’t sleep on this one folks!


Sophia Campbell

StartIsBack is decent. It’s super handy and I really like the design of the Start menu! But I've had some issues when trying to customize. Feels like it could be better. I’m still on the fence about it!


Sophia Brown

StartIsBack is the real MVP! I was stuck with the boring Windows menu, but now I’m zipping through my apps like a boss! It’s just super smooth and looks amazing. I couldn’t recommend it more! My productivity has shot through the roof!


Liam Johnson

Y’all, StartIsBack has totally transformed my computer! I was so frustrated with the Windows 10 menu, but this made it feel like home again! I feel like a tech wizard! I can’t wait to show it to my friends at the office!


Benjamin Reed

I think StartIsBack is a pretty cool app. It brings back a lot of the features I really liked about the older Windows versions. However, it can feel a bit slow to respond at times. Still, I’m happy overall!


Oliver Murphy

I've enjoyed using StartIsBack! The nostalgia is real with the Start menu! However, I noticed it can lag sometimes. It does what it says, but I wish the performance was just a bit snappier. Not bad overall!


Isabella Hall

StartIsBack is a must-have for anyone missing the classic Start menu! The smooth functionality and beautiful customization options blew me away. It really zaps my productivity! Excellent job devs!


Noah Scott

Wow wow wow! StartIsBack is like an early Christmas gift! My Start menu feels like the good old days and it’s super customizable! I can’t believe how easy it is to navigate. I’m definitely telling everyone about this one!


Ava Wilson

I am seriously obsessed with StartIsBack! It’s like I got my old XP look back! It makes me so much happier to use my PC. I love the multiple styles and they all look fantastic. This app is pure magic!


Emma Richards

I can't believe how awesome StartIsBack is! It’s like getting my old friend back when I use my PC. Super easy to customize, and I love the lightweight feel. Best part? No more hunting for apps! This made my life soooo much easier!


Chloe Nelson

StartIsBack has made my Windows experience more pleasant! The customization is fun and simple to use. I appreciate having easy access to my favorite apps again. A few bugs during installation, but nothing too crazy!


Logan Martinez

So far, StartIsBack is doing well! Loving the setup and it makes my computer feel more personal. The shortcuts are nice! Though sometimes it glitches a bit when switching menus. Could use some polishing, but still good!


Mia Carter

StartIsBack has made Windows so much more enjoyable! I can customize everything, and the retro feel is nostalgia overload! I love it when I hop onto my laptop now! This was exactly what I needed!


Daniel Harris

I had a mixed experience with StartIsBack. I love the Start menu it provides, don’t get me wrong! But it sometimes takes a while to load, which can be frustrating. Would recommend with some caution!


Ava Turner

StartIsBack has some great features that I really like, but sometimes it feels clunky. It’s a neat concept for sure, yet I’ve experienced a few crashes. I think it has potential, but needs work!


Jake Thompson

OMG, StartIsBack is an absolute game changer! It brought back the classic Start menu, and I'm LOVING it! I can finally find everything I need without fuss. It feels so familiar and cozy! Seriously, if you miss the old Windows, you have to try this!