Change is the only constant, especially in the ever-evolving realm of technology. Windows 10, Microsoft’s flagship operating system, exemplifies this with its iconic white Start button – a symbol familiar to users worldwide. However, frequent users might yearn for a touch of nostalgia or simply desire a fresh look to break the monotony. If you’ve ever wished to revive the charm of the Aero Start button from previous Windows iterations or simply infuse a sense of novelty into your daily computing experience, your search ends here. In this comprehensive guide, we will unveil the steps to swap out the default Start button with the classic Aero variant. Leveraging the power of Classic Shell, a popular freeware application, you can effortlessly transform the face of your desktop and rekindle some old Windows magic. Let’s embark on this aesthetic journey and breathe new life into your Windows 10 Start menu!
Classic Shell for Windows 10
Classic Shell is free software that improves productivity, enhances Windows’s usability, and empowers you to use the computer how you like it. The main features are:
- Highly customizable start menu with multiple styles and skins
- Quick access to recent, frequently-used, or pinned programs
- Find programs, settings, files, and documents
- Start button for Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10
- Toolbar and status bar for Windows Explorer
- Caption and status bar for Internet Explorer
How to replace the old Start button in Windows 10 with the Aero Start button?
Step 1. Install the Aero Start button on a Windows 10 machine (The link is at the end of this article).
Step 2. To open the Classic Shell, access the installation folder, and double-click Start Menu Settings to launch the settings for Classic Shell.
Step 3. There are three start menu options available, ie. Classic Style, Classic with two columns, and Windows 7 Style. Select the Start menu style.
In the lower pane, there are three options for the Start button. You can select between Aero, Classic, or Custom. Using the custom option, you can choose your startup button.
.Step 4. Select the Start Menu Style and Aero (or other) Start button.
Step 5. Finally, select the “Replace Start button” and press the OK button to activate it.
Step 6. Now, you can see the “Start Menu,” and the “Start button” of Windows 10 has been changed.
The Aero Start button will be disabled, and the default Windows 10 Start menu and the Start button will be enabled.
How to Uninstall Classic Shell on Windows 10?
To uninstall Classic Shell on Windows 10, perform the following steps:-
Step 1. Click on the Start button and type appwiz.cpl.
Step 2. From the available results, click on appwiz. cpl to launch “Programs and Features.”
Step 3. Double-click on Classic Shell from the available results.
Step 4. Click the Yes button to remove Classic Shell from your Windows 10 PC.
Download Classic Shell
You can download the Classic Shell from here.
Conclusion
The aesthetic appeal and functionality of your computer’s interface play a significant role in your overall user experience. With tools like Classic Shell, you’re given the flexibility to customize and enhance the visual appeal of key components like the Start button. Whether you’re driven by nostalgia or the pursuit of a refreshed look, replacing the default Start button with the Aero variant is a testament to the versatility and adaptability of Windows 10. It’s exciting to think that with just a few simple steps, you can reinvigorate your desktop and reignite the old Windows charm.
