In previous versions of Windows, the Start Menu was a fast way to find and launch programs . Microsoft killed it in Window 8, but if you're a fan of it, it's easy to get it back.

Pokki launched its Windows 8 Start menu replacement back in early October and the company has revealed today that it has been downloaded 1.5 million times for the new OS. The download figures for ...

With another update to Windows 8.1, Microsoft will be bringing back a Start Menu and windowed Metro-Style/Modern apps, Microsoft officials confirmed during the company's Build 2014 show.

A Modern app running in a window on the desktop (right), and the new Live Tile-packed Windows 8.1 Start menu that will be available in a future update. Credit: Microsoft ...

Start8 is our favorite of the bunch. For just $5, you get a full-fledged Start menu replacement that fits in with Windows 8's more "flat" theme, though you can also choose a theme with more ...

When Windows 8.1 ships tomorrow, the Start button returns with it—but if it’s the Start menu you miss, you’ll still need one of these utilities. They bring back the classic pop-up menu that ...

This $4.99 Start menu replacement offers lots of configuration options, including one that melds Windows 8 aesthetics and sensibility with the Windows 7 function that people are most familiar with ...

Indeed, while he wasn’t quite ready to announce Windows 9, he did show off how Windows 8.1 will soon get a new version of the beloved Start menu back. When Microsoft removed the Start menu ...

When Microsoft first revealed that it would be taking out the Start Button and Start Menu in Windows 8 the response was loud. Either users wanted to hold onto the old and focus on using Desktop ...

For Windows 8 beta users still yearning for the good, old-fashioned Start menu in Windows 8, StartMenu7 is one utility that can bring it back.

Windows 8 Start button / menu Tom Warren is a senior editor and author of Notepad , who has been covering all things Microsoft, PC, and tech for over 20 years.