Desktop & Windows
Open-Shell Menu
A customisable classic-style Start menu for Windows users who prefer a more traditional desktop workflow.
What it does
Open-Shell Menu replaces or supplements the modern Windows Start-menu experience with configurable layouts inspired by earlier Windows versions. Users can adjust menu style, Start-button appearance, entries and behaviour while retaining access to the original Windows menu.
Why we recommend it
We recommend it because interface preference matters. Users who work more efficiently with a compact, hierarchical Start menu can restore that style without changing the operating system itself.
Strengths
- Several classic Start-menu layouts
- Extensive customisation
- Original Windows Start menu remains accessible
- Useful on Windows 10 and 11
Things to consider
Because it integrates closely with the Windows shell, major Windows updates can occasionally require compatibility updates. Users who are happy with the standard Start menu gain little from installing it.
DIRECT DOWNLOAD
Download Open-Shell Menu 4.4.198
Download the Windows version directly from the OpenSource-DVD.org server.
Project information
Visit the official project page for documentation and release information. The German OpenSource-DVD entry provides our established catalogue information.