Customizing the Start Menu

First appearing in Windows XP, the new Start menu that replaced the classic program list has evolved into a comprehensive starting point for your PC. Improved for Windows 7, the Start menu offers the ability to search your programs and jump directly to various components of Windows Additionally, the Search box can launch commands similar to a traditional Run box. Everything can now be accessed from the Start menu.

Today, tools and hacks allow you to customize the Start menu. Almost everything on it is customizable. You can add and remove icons and shortcuts, and you can even change the way it looks. You can even change the way the features on it, such as the Search box, work.

After you finish reading these next few sections, you will have transformed your Start menu into something that works better for you and is much more useful for your everyday tasks.