Windows 8: Using Metro UI and Classic Start Menu

Combining Metro UI and the Classic Start Menu in Windows 8

Previously, we demonstrated how to utilize the Windows 7 Start menu within Windows 8. This article details how to simultaneously access both the functionality of the Metro UI and the familiar Windows 7 Start menu.

Introducing 7Stacks

7Stacks is a program that enables the creation of “stacks” of icons on your Taskbar. This feature helps to minimize icon clutter by grouping related items into a single, consolidated icon. We will leverage this capability to establish a Windows 7-style Start menu alongside the native Windows 8 interface.

The developer’s website indicates compatibility with Windows 7, Vista, and XP. However, our testing within the Windows 8 Developer Preview confirmed its successful operation.

Preparing for Installation

Prior to installing 7Stacks, ensure that hidden items are visible within Windows Explorer. Open Windows Explorer and select any folder. Navigate to the View tab.

If the View tab is not fully displayed, click the narrow arrow button on the right side to reveal all available groups.

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Within the Show/hide group, select the “Hidden items” check box to activate its display.

Once hidden items are enabled, double-click the downloaded .exe file to initiate the 7Stacks installation process.

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Addressing Security Prompts

During installation, a security dialog box may appear. Click the “More Info” link to view additional details.

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Subsequently, click the “Run Anyway” button to proceed with the installation.

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Completing the Installation

Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the setup wizard.

7Stacks can be used to create multiple stacks beyond just the Start menu. On the “Select Additional Tasks” screen, consider enabling the “Create a desktop icon” check box for convenient stack creation from the desktop.

On the final screen, a check box allows you to launch 7Stacks immediately after exiting the wizard. Select this option if you wish to start 7Stacks right away.

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Configuring the Start Menu Stack

Once 7Stacks is running, click the “…” button next to the “Folder to use for stack” edit box.

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In the “Browse for Folder” dialog box, navigate to and select the following folder, then click “OK”.

C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs

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Enter a descriptive title in the “Caption” edit box. This will be the text displayed on the shortcut. Choose an option from the “Stack Type” drop-down list. We recommend “Menu,” although “Vertical Stack” is also available. Both options produce a popup menu resembling the classic Start menu.

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To select an icon for the shortcut, click the “…” button next to the “Icon” edit box.

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The “Change Icon” dialog box will appear, displaying numerous icons from the default .dll file. Scroll through the options and click to select your desired icon. Click “OK”.

Note: You can also use the “Browse” button to select an icon from another .exe, .dll, or .ico file.

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Accept the default values for the remaining options. Click “Create Shortcut on Desktop”.

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The “Status” box at the bottom of the dialog box will confirm successful stack creation. Click “Close”.

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Finalizing the Setup

To place the stack on the Taskbar, drag the newly created shortcut to the Taskbar. Position it adjacent to the Windows 8 Start button.

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Clicking the shortcut on the Taskbar will now display a classic-style Start menu. The Windows 8 Metro UI-style Start menu remains accessible alongside the newly added classic interface.

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It’s important to note that 7Stacks does not provide built-in search functionality for the classic Start menu. For an alternative search tool, consider FileSearchEX. While designed for Windows 7, it functions effectively within Windows 8 due to its underlying compatibility. Installation now utilizes a direct .exe installer, and the same security prompt as 7Stacks may appear; click “More Info” and then “Run Anyway” to proceed.

Download 7Stacks from http://alastria.com/software/7stacks/.