Windows 10 has undergone several transformations since its release, and one of the most significant changes is the improved Start menu. While the Start menu provides an easy way to access your frequently used apps, there are times when you might need to bypass it altogether. Perhaps you want to customize your workflow, or the Start menu is not functioning as expected. Whatever the reason, it’s essential to know how to open apps on Windows 10 without relying on the Start menu.
Understanding the Alternative Methods
Before we dive into the various methods, it’s crucial to understand why you might need to access apps without the Start menu. Here are a few scenarios:
- You’re experiencing issues with the Start menu, such as it not opening or freezing.
- You want to create custom shortcuts for your favorite apps.
- You’re using a touchscreen device and prefer gesture-based navigation.
- You’re setting up a kiosk or public-facing computer and need to restrict access to certain features.
In the following sections, we’ll explore alternative methods to open apps on Windows 10 without relying on the Start menu.
Method 1: Using the Taskbar
The Taskbar is one of the most accessible features in Windows 10, and it provides a convenient way to open your favorite apps quickly. Here’s how to use the Taskbar to open apps:
- Pin your favorite apps: Right-click on an app icon and select “Pin to taskbar” to add it to the Taskbar. This will create a permanent shortcut that you can access at any time.
- Open pinned apps: Click on the pinned app icon on the Taskbar to open it instantly.
- Use Taskbar searches: Type an app’s name in the Taskbar search bar to find and open it.
Customizing the Taskbar for Easy Access
To get the most out of the Taskbar, you can customize it to fit your workflow. Here are a few tips:
- Rearrange app icons: Drag and drop app icons to rearrange them in the order you prefer.
- Use the Taskbar settings: Right-click on an empty area of the Taskbar and select “Taskbar settings” to adjust various options, such as hiding or showing app icons, and customizing the Taskbar’s appearance.
Method 2: Exploring the File Explorer
The File Explorer is another essential feature in Windows 10 that allows you to access apps without the Start menu. Here’s how:
- Navigate to the App Folders: Open the File Explorer and navigate to the following folders:
- C:\Program Files: This folder contains most installed apps.
- C:\Program Files (x86): This folder contains 32-bit apps.
- Open app executables: Find the executable file (usually with a .exe extension) of the app you want to open and double-click on it to launch the app.
- Create shortcuts: Right-click on an app executable and select “Create shortcut” to create a shortcut on your desktop or another location.
Using File Explorer’s Search Function
The File Explorer comes with a powerful search function that allows you to quickly find apps:
- Search for apps: Type an app’s name in the File Explorer’s search bar to find its executable file.
- Use advanced search: Click on the “Search” tab in the File Explorer and select “Advanced search” to filter results by file type, size, and other criteria.
Method 3: Utilizing Windows Key + R
The Windows Key + R combination is a powerful shortcut that allows you to open apps quickly. Here’s how:
- Press Windows Key + R: Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type the app’s name: Type the name of the app you want to open, followed by the .exe extension (e.g., “notepad.exe”).
- Press Enter: Press Enter to open the app instantly.
Using Windows Key + R for System Apps
You can also use Windows Key + R to open system apps and utilities:
- System apps: Type “msconfig” to open the System Configuration utility, “dxdiag” to open the DirectX Diagnostic Tool, or “msinfo32” to open the System Information tool.
Method 4: Creating Desktop Shortcuts
Creating desktop shortcuts is a convenient way to access your favorite apps without relying on the Start menu. Here’s how:
- Create a new shortcut: Right-click on an empty area of the desktop and select “New” > “Shortcut”.
- Browse to the app executable: Navigate to the app’s executable file and select it.
- Name the shortcut: Give the shortcut a name and optional icon.
- Drag and drop the shortcut: Drag and drop the shortcut to your desired location on the desktop.
Customizing Desktop Shortcuts
You can customize desktop shortcuts to fit your workflow:
- Change the icon: Right-click on the shortcut and select “Properties” to change the icon or shortcut key.
- Add to the Taskbar: Right-click on the shortcut and select “Pin to taskbar” to add it to the Taskbar.
Method 5: Using Third-Party Launchers
If you’re not satisfied with the built-in methods, you can explore third-party launchers that provide alternative ways to open apps. Some popular launchers include:
- Classic Shell: A popular open-source launcher that mimics the classic Start menu.
- Start-is-Back: A lightweight launcher that adds a Start button and menu to Windows 10.
- CCleaner: A popular utility that includes a built-in app launcher.
Evaluating Third-Party Launchers
When choosing a third-party launcher, consider the following factors:
- Customization options: Look for launchers that allow you to customize the layout, appearance, and functionality to fit your needs.
- Compatibility: Ensure the launcher is compatible with your version of Windows 10.
- Performance impact: Check if the launcher affects system performance or resource usage.
In conclusion, there are various ways to open apps on Windows 10 without relying on the Start menu. By understanding the alternative methods and customizing your workflow, you can improve your productivity and efficiency. Whether you prefer using the Taskbar, File Explorer, Windows Key + R, desktop shortcuts, or third-party launchers, there’s a solution that suits your needs.
How do I access the Taskbar if I don’t have a Start Menu?
You can access the Taskbar by clicking on an empty area of the Taskbar and dragging it to the top of the screen. This will reveal the Taskbar, where you can pin your favorite apps for easy access. If you’re using a touchscreen device, you can swipe up from the bottom of the screen to bring up the Taskbar.
Alternatively, you can also use the Windows key + T to toggle the Taskbar on and off. This will allow you to quickly switch between hiding and showing the Taskbar, giving you more screen real estate when you need it. By using one of these methods, you can easily access your favorite apps without relying on the Start Menu.
Can I still use the Windows Search function without the Start Menu?
Yes, you can still use the Windows Search function even if you don’t have a Start Menu. To access Windows Search, press the Windows key + S on your keyboard. This will bring up the Search bar, where you can type in the name of the app or file you’re looking for. You can also use the Windows Search function to search for settings, documents, and other items on your computer.
Windows Search is a powerful tool that allows you to quickly find what you need without having to navigate through the Start Menu. You can also use the Windows Search function to search for apps, settings, and files from the Taskbar or from any other part of the Windows 10 interface. This makes it easy to find what you need, even if you don’t have a Start Menu.
How do I pin apps to the Taskbar?
To pin an app to the Taskbar, right-click on the app’s icon in the Taskbar and select “Pin to Taskbar.” This will add the app to your Taskbar, where you can access it quickly and easily. You can also pin apps to the Taskbar by dragging and dropping them from the desktop or from the File Explorer.
Pinning apps to the Taskbar is a great way to keep your favorite apps within easy reach. This allows you to quickly launch your most-used apps without having to search for them in the Start Menu or on the desktop. By pinning your favorite apps to the Taskbar, you can streamline your workflow and make it easier to get things done.
Can I still use shortcuts to access my apps?
Yes, you can still use shortcuts to access your apps even if you don’t have a Start Menu. To create a shortcut, right-click on an app’s icon and select “Create shortcut.” This will create a shortcut to the app on your desktop, which you can then move to any location you like.
Shortcuts are a convenient way to access your apps without having to navigate through the Start Menu. You can create shortcuts to your favorite apps and place them on the desktop, in a folder, or even on the Taskbar. This allows you to quickly launch your apps without having to search for them or navigate through menus.
How do I access the Notifications panel?
To access the Notifications panel, click on the Notification icon in the Taskbar (it looks like a speech bubble). This will bring up the Notifications panel, where you can view and manage your notifications. You can also use the Windows key + N to quickly bring up the Notifications panel.
The Notifications panel is where Windows 10 displays important notifications, such as updates, alerts, and reminders. By accessing the Notifications panel, you can stay on top of what’s happening on your computer and quickly respond to important notifications. You can also customize the Notifications panel to show only the notifications that are most important to you.
Can I still use the Windows key to access apps?
Yes, you can still use the Windows key to access apps even if you don’t have a Start Menu. The Windows key is a powerful shortcut key that allows you to quickly access various parts of the Windows 10 interface. For example, you can press the Windows key + E to open File Explorer, or the Windows key + L to lock your computer.
By using the Windows key, you can quickly access your favorite apps and features without having to navigate through menus or search for them. The Windows key is a convenient way to streamline your workflow and get things done more quickly. You can also customize the Windows key to open your favorite apps or features by creating custom keyboard shortcuts.
How do I access the Settings app?
To access the Settings app, press the Windows key + I on your keyboard. This will bring up the Settings app, where you can adjust various settings and customize your Windows 10 experience. You can also access the Settings app by searching for it in Windows Search or by clicking on the gear icon in the Taskbar.
The Settings app is where you can customize various aspects of your Windows 10 experience, from display settings to security settings. By accessing the Settings app, you can personalize your computer to your liking and get the most out of Windows 10. You can also use the Settings app to troubleshoot issues and fix problems with your computer.