How To Get Start Bar On Windows 8

Are you frustrated with the lack of a Start bar on your Windows 8 operating system? Before you give up hope, there is a way to bring back the familiar Start bar that you know and love. With just a few simple steps, you can regain the functionality and convenience of the Start bar on your Windows 8 system. Say goodbye to the confusion and embrace the familiarity of the Start bar once again.

The Start bar has been a staple of Windows operating systems for years, providing users with easy access to their favorite programs, files, and settings. However, with the introduction of Windows 8, Microsoft made the bold decision to replace the traditional Start bar with a new Start screen filled with live tiles. While some users adapted quickly to this change, many longed for the simplicity and efficiency of the Start bar. Luckily, third-party software solutions emerged to meet this demand, allowing users to bring back the Start bar on their Windows 8 systems. By installing and customizing these software programs, users can experience the best of both worlds - the modern features of Windows 8 combined with the familiar functionality of the Start bar.

The Importance of the Start Bar on Windows 8

The Start Bar, also known as the Taskbar, is a vital component of the Windows operating system. It provides quick and convenient access to frequently used programs, essential system tools, and notifications. However, users of Windows 8 might find it challenging to locate the traditional Start Bar on their desktops. The absence of the Start Bar can be disorienting for users who are accustomed to its familiar layout from previous versions of Windows. In this article, we will explore various methods to help you get the Start Bar back on Windows 8 and restore familiarity and ease of use to your desktop.

1. Use Third-Party Start Menu Tools

If you prefer a more familiar start menu experience on Windows 8, you can opt to use third-party start menu tools. These tools replicate the traditional Start Bar found in earlier versions of Windows, allowing you to access your favorite programs and system tools with just a click:

• StartIsBack: This tool brings back the classic Start Bar with all its features and customizability. It seamlessly integrates with Windows 8, providing a smooth and familiar user experience.
• Classic Shell: As the name suggests, Classic Shell brings back the classic Start Menu while also offering additional customization options to suit your preferences. It supports various Windows versions, including Windows 8.
• Start Menu 8: Developed by IObit, Start Menu 8 transforms your Windows 8 desktop into a traditional start menu layout. It also provides additional features like quick search, easy customization, and added security.

By installing these third-party tools, you can regain the familiarity of the Start Bar while enjoying the benefits of Windows 8's enhanced features and performance.

2. Customize Taskbar Settings

If you prefer not to use third-party tools, you can tweak the Taskbar settings in Windows 8 to make it behave more like the traditional Start Bar:

• Right-click on the Taskbar and select "Properties" to open the Taskbar and Navigation properties window.
• In the Taskbar tab, check the "Use small taskbar buttons" option to reduce the size of the icons on the Taskbar, creating more room for other pinned items.
• In the Navigation tab, under the "Start screen" section, check the "When I sign in or close all applications on a screen, go to the desktop instead of Start" option to bypass the Start screen and directly access the desktop upon sign-in or when closing applications.
• In the same tab, check the "Show the Apps view automatically when I go to Start" option to have a more organized and easy-to-navigate list of applications similar to the traditional Start Menu.

By customizing these settings, you can personalize the Taskbar to your liking and make it function more like the Start Bar for a seamless user experience.

3. Utilize Keyboard Shortcuts

Windows 8 provides a range of keyboard shortcuts that can help you navigate and access various features and programs quickly. Some useful keyboard shortcuts to get around without the Start Bar include:

Keyboard Shortcut	Description
Windows Key	Opens the Start screen
Windows Key + D	Opens the desktop view
Windows Key + X	Opens the power user menu, providing quick access to various system tools and settings
Windows Key + E	Opens File Explorer
Windows Key + L	Locks the computer

By familiarizing yourself with these keyboard shortcuts, you can operate Windows 8 with ease, even without the presence of the Start Bar.

4. Pin Frequently Used Programs to the Taskbar

If you have specific programs that you frequently use, you can pin them to the Taskbar for easy access:

To pin a program to the Taskbar:

• Open the program, either from the Start screen or the File Explorer.
• Right-click on the program's icon on the Taskbar.
• Select "Pin to Taskbar" from the context menu.

Once pinned, the program's icon will always be visible on the Taskbar, allowing you to open it with a single click.

5. Create Desktop Shortcuts

In addition to pinning programs, you can also create desktop shortcuts for quick access to your commonly used applications or files:

To create a desktop shortcut:

• Locate the program or file you want to create a shortcut for (either in File Explorer or on the Start screen).
• Right-click on the program or file.
• Select "Send to" from the context menu.
• Choose "Desktop (Create shortcut)" from the submenu.

A shortcut to the selected program or file will appear on your desktop, allowing you to access it quickly and efficiently.

Exploring Additional Options for the Start Bar on Windows 8

In addition to the methods mentioned above, there are a few other possibilities to consider:

1. Enable the Start Button in Windows 8.1

Windows 8.1 introduced an update that brought back the Start button, although not the traditional Start Menu. To enable the Start button in Windows 8.1:

• Right-click on the Taskbar, and select "Properties" to open the Taskbar and Navigation properties window.
• In the Navigation tab, under the "Start screen" section, check the "Show the Start button" option to enable the Start button.

With the Start button enabled, you can access the Start screen by clicking on the Start button in the bottom-left corner of the Taskbar.

2. Upgrade to Windows 10

If you find the absence of the Start Bar on Windows 8 to be hindering your productivity or causing significant frustration, you might consider upgrading to Windows 10. Windows 10 reintroduced the traditional Start Menu while retaining the improved performance and features introduced in Windows 8.

Upgrading to Windows 10 will provide you with the familiar Start Bar experience, ensuring a seamless transition and a more streamlined workflow.

3. Familiarize Yourself with the Start Screen

Although the Start Bar is absent in Windows 8, the Start screen serves as a replacement and offers enhanced functionality. By familiarizing yourself with the Start screen and its features, you can efficiently navigate and customize your Windows 8 experience:

• Pin frequently used apps and programs to the Start screen for quick access.
• Organize tiles into groups to categorize apps and improve visual organization.
• Resize and rearrange tiles to suit your preferences and workflows.
• Customize the Start screen background and color scheme.

By utilizing the features and customization options available in the Start screen, you can tailor your Windows 8 experience to meet your specific needs.

While the absence of the traditional Start Bar in Windows 8 may initially seem daunting, there are various methods and alternatives to help you regain the familiarity and convenience you desire. Whether you choose to use third-party start menu tools, customize Taskbar settings, utilize keyboard shortcuts, or explore additional options, you can find a solution that suits your preferences and workflow. Embrace the power of Windows 8 while maintaining the ease of use you have come to expect from previous versions of Windows.

How to Enable Start Bar on Windows 8

Windows 8 introduced a new interface with the removal of the iconic Start button and Start menu. However, if you prefer the traditional Start bar, there are several ways to enable it on Windows 8.

One option is to use third-party software such as Classic Shell or Start8. These programs allow you to customize your Windows 8 interface and bring back the Start bar with menu options.

Another option is to enable the Start bar through the Taskbar settings. Right-click on the taskbar and select "Properties." Go to the "Navigation" tab and check the box that says "Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in."

Alternatively, you can use keyboard shortcuts to access the Start bar. Press the Windows key on your keyboard or the Windows key + D to go to the desktop, where you can find the Start bar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting the Start Bar on Windows 8 can be a bit tricky for some users. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate through the process. Take a look below for the answers to your questions.

1. Can I get the Start Bar on Windows 8?

Yes, you can get the Start Bar on Windows 8. Although Windows 8 introduced the Start Screen as a replacement for the traditional Start Menu, there are ways to bring back the Start Bar if you prefer the classic look. One method is to use third-party software like Classic Shell or StartIsBack. These programs allow you to customize your Windows interface and bring back the Start Bar with all its familiar features.

2. What are the benefits of having the Start Bar on Windows 8?

Having the Start Bar on Windows 8 can bring back the familiarity and convenience of previous Windows versions. It provides quick access to frequently used programs, settings, and files, making it easier and faster to navigate your computer. The Start Bar also allows for easy multitasking, as you can pin your favorite apps and switch between them with just a click. Additionally, the Start Bar provides a unified and organized interface that many users find more intuitive and user-friendly.

3. How do I get the Start Bar using Classic Shell?

To get the Start Bar on Windows 8 using Classic Shell, you need to download and install the software from their official website. Once installed, you can customize various aspects of your Start Bar, such as the color, layout, and functionality. You can also choose to display or hide certain elements, add or remove shortcuts, and personalize it according to your preferences. Classic Shell provides a seamless way to bring back the Start Bar and customize it to suit your needs and preferences.

4. Can I get the Start Bar on Windows 8 without using third-party software?

Yes, it is possible to get the Start Bar on Windows 8 without using third-party software. One way is to enable the "Desktop" app as your default interface instead of the Start Screen. This can be done by right-clicking on the taskbar, selecting "Properties," and navigating to the "Navigation" tab. From there, you can check the option to "Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in." This will automatically take you to the desktop upon login, where you can access the Start Bar as in previous Windows versions.

5. Are there any risks or drawbacks in getting the Start Bar on Windows 8 through third-party software?

While using third-party software to get the Start Bar on Windows 8 is generally safe, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, make sure to download and install the software from the official website to ensure its authenticity and reliability. Additionally, be cautious when granting permissions or making changes to your system settings. Lastly, keep in mind that third-party software may not always be updated to support the latest Windows updates, which could result in compatibility issues. It's always a good idea to research and read reviews before installing any third-party software on your computer.

In conclusion, adding the Start bar to Windows 8 is a simple process that can greatly enhance your user experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily bring back the familiar functionality of the Start menu.

Remember, the Start bar provides quick access to your most used apps, settings, and files, making it easier to navigate your computer. Whether you prefer the classic look or you want to customize it to your liking, having the Start bar on Windows 8 can make your workflow more efficient and convenient.