Toggle between XP start menu mode and Windows 2000 start menu mode

by Wayne Maples [Published on 20 April 2004 / Last Updated on 20 April 2004]

Windows XP Start Menu sports a new look and feel. If you prefer the Windows 2000 look and feel, XP supports both. To toggle:
  • Right-click Start button
  • Select Properties
  • Click on the radio button of your choice:
    • Start Menu
    • Classic Start Menu (W2K style)

If you are an administrator, you can check which style is being used by querying a registry value or control this with a registry hack. Check out:

Registry Tip #2: XP Start Menu style, XP vs W2K classic, Registry Setting Control.

The TaskBar options I use :

  • Click on Start | Settings | Control Panel
  • Select Taskbar and Start Menu
  • On the properties for Taskbar Appearance I have selected:
    • Lock the taskbar
      keeps the taskbar locked at its current position on the desktop
      prevents size and position changes of any toolbars displayed on the taskbar
    • Autohide the taskbar
      keeps the taskbar hidden until you move the cursor to edge of the screen where you have the taskbar anchored
    • Keep the taskbar on top of other windows
    • Group similar taskbar buttons
      works well for me particularly when I have lots of IE sessions open
    • Show Quick Launch place shortcuts to your most used programs making Start | Programs less heavily travelled

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