Classic Shell

Note: Classic Shell is no longer being actively developed, but you can try the newer and up to date fork: Open-Shell.

Classic Shell is a simple-to-use program that enables you to activate removed features in your system. It caters to all users who want to fully personalize their computer and gain access to hidden and useful options.

The complete package includes classic Explorer (adds a toolbar to Windows Explorer, replaces the copy UI and fixes some usability problems), Start menu (highly customizable), Internet Explorer 9 (customize the title bar and status bar of the web browser), and shell update (checks for new versions periodically).

As far as the Classic Start Menu is concerned, you can choose an appearance between Windows Classic, Windows XP, or Vista/Windows 7 mode.

You can specify the left click, Shift+click and Windows key actions (e.g. open Start menu or screen), display the Favorites area as a link or menu, set the menu delay time, skip the Metro screen, as well as disable the Start button.

It is possible to change the interface skin, show two columns, the user picture and name, activate white submenus, as well as reduce the glass color. These are just some of the options provided by Classic Shell.

The application is low-demanding when it comes to CPU and RAM, so it doesn't slow down computer responsiveness. We have not come across any issues throughout our evaluation, since the app did not hang or crash. Classic Shell offers a simple solution to bringing back removed features in newer operating systems.

Classic Shell is part of these download collections: Windows 8 Start Menu