How to Make the Windows 11 Start Menu Look Like Windows 10

Windows 11 arrived with a centred taskbar and a redesigned, tile-free Start Menu. If you have used Windows for years, the change can feel jarring — the Start Menu is the one thing everyone relies on. The good news: you can get a lot of the familiar Windows 10 style Start Menu feel back. Here is how, safely.

First, the easy wins (no registry needed)

Before editing anything technical, try the built-in settings:

1. Move Start back to the left: right-click the taskbar → Taskbar settings → Taskbar behaviours → set Taskbar alignment to Left. Instantly more Windows-10-like.
2. Show more pinned apps / recommendations: Settings → Personalisation → Start, and adjust the layout and what appears.

The registry tweak (older Windows 11 builds)

On early Windows 11 builds there was a registry switch that restored the classic Start Menu. Editing the registry carries risk — back it up first (in the Registry Editor: File → Export). Then:

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, press Enter.
2. Go to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
3. Create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named Start_ShowClassicMode.
4. Set its value to 1, then restart your PC.

Note: Microsoft removed this switch in later Windows 11 updates, so it may not work on a fully updated system. If it does nothing, undo the change (set it back to 0 or delete the value).

The reliable long-term option

If the registry trick no longer works on your build, a well-reviewed third-party tool such as Start11 or the free Open-Shell can restore a full classic Start Menu. Only download such tools from their official sources.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get the Windows 10 Start Menu back on Windows 11?

You can get very close using built-in settings (left-aligned taskbar, layout tweaks). For the full classic menu, a trusted third-party tool is the most reliable route on updated builds.

Is editing the registry safe?

It is safe if you are careful and back up first (File → Export). Change only the value described and restart.

Why did the registry trick stop working?

Microsoft removed the Start_ShowClassicMode switch in later Windows 11 updates, so it only works on some early builds.