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Hide Start Button in Windows 8.1 - Tutorial

January 8, 2014
Hide Start Button in Windows 8.1 - Tutorial

Removing the Start Button in Windows 8.1

Initially, Windows 8 eliminated the Start Button, a feature many users relied upon. While Windows 8.1 reintroduced it, some individuals may prefer the interface without it.

It is possible to once again remove the Start Button. This can be achieved through a simple software utility.

Installation Process

The required tool, StartIsGone, is available for download from WinAero. First, obtain the application and extract the contents of the downloaded archive.

Ensure you select the correct version – either x86 (32-bit) or x64 (64-bit) – corresponding to your system architecture. Then, store the extracted files in a secure location.

Finally, execute the application to initiate the removal process.

Upon running StartIsGone, the Start Button will disappear from your taskbar.

Configuration Options

A small icon will appear in the system tray. Clicking this icon allows you to configure the application's behavior.

Select "Run at startup" to ensure StartIsGone automatically launches with Windows. Additionally, choose "Hide tray icon" to conceal the application's presence in the system tray.

Keep in mind that StartIsGone operates in the background. While its resource consumption is minimal, consider whether re-acclimating to the visible Start Button might be a more practical solution.

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