Monday, March 26, 2007

Get your old start menu back!

Get back that familiar Windows look and feel

Windows XP was a welcomed change, as is Windows Vista. The interface has changed over the years but essentially operates the same way. For many, the change is great and they have no problem adapting to the new menus. Locating familiar icons and settings is sort of like a mini treasure hunt, with a surprise at every click. Then there are some that like the way things were. The menus, and control panel settings were all in a place that could be easily be found. You invested the time to learn those things and have now become proficient and comfortable. You don’t want to reinvest the time and relearn and unlearn what you already know.

Windows XP changed the start menu drastically, and so has Windows Vista. Well a few simple mouse click can easily restore your familiar Pre Windows XP start menu to its former glory.

If you get into the habit of using your right mouse button, you can open a world of secrets, special options and advanced settings. The right mouse button allows you to select sub menus and options, while the left mouse allows you to activate or invoke those options.

Roll your mouse over the Start Button, right mouse click and select properties with your left button. This will open the Taskbar and Start menu properties. Click the Start menu tab at the top to access the start menu settings. Select the Classic Start menu radio button, and click Apply, and then click OK. After a short delay, you have your familiar start menu back. You can always undo this change by repeating the process, and selecting Start menu radio button.