How to Change Windows 10 Start Menu: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
The Windows 10 Start menu is a crucial part of your operating system, providing quick access to your installed applications, settings, and frequent files. While it’s designed to be user-friendly, you might still want to customize it to suit your preferences. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of changing the Windows 10 Start menu, including various customization options and tips to help you optimize its functionality.
Direct Answer: How do I change Windows 10 Start menu?
To change the Windows 10 Start menu, you can use the built-in tools and settings available in the operating system. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Step 1: Customize the Start Menu Layout
- Right-click on the Start button and select Properties.
- In the Properties window, click on the Customize button next to More settings.
- In the Start menu window, you can choose from various layout options, such as Large icons, Medium icons, or Small icons. Choose the layout that suits your preference.
- Click OK to save your changes.
Step 2: Add or Remove Apps
- Click on the All apps tab in the Start menu window.
- Right-click on an app and select Pin to Start to add it to the Start menu.
- Right-click on an app and select Unpin from Start to remove it from the Start menu.
- You can also drag and drop apps from the All apps list to add or remove them from the Start menu.
Step 3: Change the Start Menu Background
- Right-click on the Start button and select Personalize.
- In the Personalization window, click on the Colors tab.
- In the Colors window, you can choose from various Accent colors and Highlight colors to change the background of the Start menu.
- Click OK to save your changes.
Step 4: Add a Tile or Symbol to the Start Menu
- Right-click on the Start button and select Personalize.
- In the Personalize window, click on the Themes tab.
- In the Themes window, click on the Browse button to browse and select a WSA (Windows Start Application) file.
- Click Open to add the selected tile or symbol to the Start menu.
Tips and Tricks
- Toggle Quick Links: Press the Windows + I keyboard shortcut to open the All apps list, which can help you quickly access frequently used apps.
- Use the Search Bar: Press the Windows + S keyboard shortcut to open the search bar, which can help you quickly find apps, files, and settings.
- Resize the Start Menu: You can resize the Start menu by dragging the border between the Start menu and the taskbar.
- Show or Hide the Start Menu: You can show or hide the Start menu by right-clicking on the Start button and selecting Show/hide Start menu.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide on how to change the Windows 10 Start menu. By following the steps outlined above, you can customize the Start menu layout, add or remove apps, change the background, and even add tiles or symbols. Remember to take advantage of the various tips and tricks to optimize the functionality of the Start menu and make it work best for you.
Additional Resources
For more information on customizing and optimizing the Windows 10 Start menu, you can refer to the following resources:
- Microsoft Support: Windows 10 Start Menu
- Microsoft TechNet: Customize the Start menu in Windows 10
- Windows Central: How to customize the Start menu in Windows 10
By following these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of the Start menu and how to make the most of it.