In Windows 10/11, the Start menu is represented by two folders. One folder is for all users, and the other is only for the currently logged-in user.
The Start Menu folder for all users is C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs.
The Start Menu folder location specific to your account is C:\Users\your-user-name\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs.
To access these locations quickly, we can use the following run commands (to open the Run dialog box, press Windows key + R).
Run the following command to open the location containing start menu programs available to all users:
shell:Common Programs
The following run command opens the start menu folder contains programs specific to your account:
Shell:Programs
And this is how we locate the Start menu folder in Windows 10/Windows 11 operating system.
In order to find the Start Menu folder in Windows 10, there are several possible solutions. One way is to use PowerShell commands to ask Windows for the location. Another option is to navigate to the folder using File Explorer. Additionally, it is important to note that the Start Menu is built from two locations: one for system-wide folders and shortcuts, and another for user-specific shortcuts and folders.
Key Takeaways
- To find the Start Menu folder in Windows 10, you can use PowerShell commands or navigate through File Explorer.
- The Start Menu is composed of system-wide and user-specific folders and shortcuts.
Using PowerShell Commands to Locate the Start Menu Folder
If you’re wondering how to find the Start Menu folder in Windows 10, PowerShell commands can be a helpful solution. By utilizing specific commands, you can easily retrieve the path of the Start Menu folder for both system-wide and user-specific shortcuts and folders. Here are a few steps to get you started:
- Open PowerShell by searching for it in the Start Menu or by using the shortcut Win + X and selecting “Windows PowerShell” from the menu.
- To find the Start Menu folder for the currently logged-in user, input the command [Environment]::GetFolderPath(‘StartMenu’) and press Enter.
- To retrieve the path of the system-wide Start Menu folder, use the command [Environment]::GetFolderPath(‘CommonStartMenu’) and hit Enter.
- Review the output of these commands, which will display the respective paths to the Start Menu folders.
Using PowerShell commands can provide you with a quick and efficient way to locate the Start Menu folder in Windows 10. It’s worth mentioning that running PowerShell commands as an administrator may also help refresh the Start Menu if you encounter any issues.
Quote: “PowerShell commands are a powerful tool for navigating and managing various aspects of the Windows operating system, including finding the Start Menu folder. With just a few simple commands, you can gain insights into the file paths and locations of the Start Menu folders, allowing for easy access and customization.” – Me, Professional Copywriting Journalist
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
| [Environment]::GetFolderPath(‘StartMenu’) | Retrieves the path of the Start Menu folder for the currently logged-in user. |
| [Environment]::GetFolderPath(‘CommonStartMenu’) | Retrieves the path of the system-wide Start Menu folder. |
Remember, understanding the location of the Start Menu folder can be beneficial for organizing and customizing your apps. By utilizing PowerShell commands, you can easily find and access the Start Menu folder in Windows 10.
Locating the Start Menu Folder in File Explorer
When it comes to finding the Start Menu folder in Windows 10, File Explorer can be a handy tool. By navigating through the file directory, you can easily locate both the system-wide and user-specific Start Menu folders.
To access the system-wide Start Menu folder, simply follow these steps:
- Open File Explorer by pressing the Windows key and E simultaneously.
- In the address bar at the top of the File Explorer window, enter “C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu” and press Enter.
- You will now be directed to the system-wide Start Menu folder, which contains shortcuts and folders accessible to all users on the computer.
For the user-specific Start Menu folder, you can follow these instructions:
- Open File Explorer again.
- In the address bar, type “%appdata%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu” and press Enter.
- Now, you will be taken to the user-specific Start Menu folder, which contains shortcuts and folders specific to your user account.
Why Is This Important?
Knowing the location of the Start Menu folder can be useful for various reasons. It allows you to easily add or remove shortcuts, organize your apps, and customize your Start Menu according to your preferences. Additionally, being able to access the system-wide Start Menu folder can be helpful when you want to make changes that apply to all users on the computer.
By using File Explorer to locate the Start Menu folder in Windows 10, you gain greater control over your applications and how they are presented in your Start Menu. So, go ahead and explore the possibilities!
Accessing the Start Menu Folder in Windows 7
If you’re using Windows 7 and need to access the Start Menu folder, the process is slightly different compared to Windows 10. Instead of right-clicking the Start button, you’ll need to right-click the “All Programs” option within the Start menu itself. A context menu will appear, and from there, choose “Open” to navigate to your user-specific Start Menu folder. This will open the folder in File Explorer, allowing you to easily manage and organize your shortcuts and folders.
Similarly, if you want to access the system-wide Start Menu folder that applies to all users, you can right-click “Open All Users” within the “All Programs” option. This will open the system-wide Start Menu folder, where you can make changes and add or remove shortcuts and folders for all users on the computer.
Summary:
In Windows 7, accessing the Start Menu folder involves right-clicking the “All Programs” option within the Start menu. From there, choose “Open” to navigate to your user-specific Start Menu folder. To access the system-wide Start Menu folder, right-click “Open All Users” within the “All Programs” option. This allows you to manage shortcuts and folders for all users on the computer.
By following these simple steps, you can conveniently access and customize the Start Menu folder in Windows 7. Whether you’re organizing shortcuts or adding new folders, having easy access to this folder ensures that you can efficiently manage your applications and files. Take advantage of these features to personalize your Start Menu and make navigating your computer a breeze.
Remember, the Start Menu folder is an important part of your Windows experience, and understanding how to access it is essential for efficient organization and customization. With these instructions, you’ll have no trouble finding the Start Menu folder in Windows 7 and making it work for you.
| Steps | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Right-click the “All Programs” option within the Start menu. |
| Step 2 | Choose “Open” to navigate to your user-specific Start Menu folder. |
| Step 3 | To access the system-wide Start Menu folder, right-click “Open All Users” within the “All Programs” option. |
Conclusion
After exploring different methods, I have successfully located the Start Menu folder in Windows 10. By using PowerShell commands, I was able to retrieve the paths of both the system-wide and user-specific Start Menu folders. Additionally, navigating through File Explorer proved to be another effective way to access these folders.
Locating the Start Menu folder is crucial for organizing and customizing your apps. Whether you prefer using PowerShell or File Explorer, the process is straightforward, allowing you to manage and arrange your Start Menu according to your preferences.
By understanding the different pathways and locations, you can easily find and access the Start Menu folder in Windows 10. Take advantage of these methods to make technology work for you and enhance your overall user experience.
FAQ
How can I locate the Start Menu folder in Windows 10?
There are several ways to find the Start Menu folder in Windows 10. One way is to use PowerShell commands like `[Environment]::GetFolderPath(‘StartMenu’)` and `[Environment]::GetFolderPath(‘CommonStartMenu’)`. Another option is to navigate to the folder using File Explorer.
How do I use PowerShell commands to locate the Start Menu folder?
To locate the Start Menu folder using PowerShell, you can use commands like `[Environment]::GetFolderPath(‘StartMenu’)` and `[Environment]::GetFolderPath(‘CommonStartMenu’)`. These commands will retrieve the paths of the Start Menu folder for the currently logged-in user and the system-wide Start Menu folder, respectively.
How do I locate the Start Menu folder in File Explorer?
To locate the Start Menu folder in File Explorer, you can navigate to `C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu` for the system-wide Start Menu folder, and `%appdata%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu` for the user-specific Start Menu folder.
How can I access the Start Menu folder in Windows 7?
In Windows 7, you can access the Start Menu folder by right-clicking the “All Programs” option within the Start menu itself. From there, choose “Open” to navigate to your user-specific Start Menu folder. You can also click “Open All Users” to access the system-wide Start Menu folder that applies to all users.
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Mark is a senior content editor at Text-Center.com and has more than 20 years of experience with linux and windows operating systems. He also writes for Biteno.com
To rearrange a setting on your Computer the best practice is to access its concerned root folders then edit dealing with the items existing here. The condition also matches in the matter of the Start menu. If you are looking to renovate and clean the Start menu then after navigating to the locations where all the respective files and folders are placed you can perform these tasks pretty shortly.
The folders and files concerned to Start Menu in Windows 10 are placed at 2 separate locations; The first one is per user whereas the other address is for all users. When you navigate to both the locations, you can easily trace out the contrast amongst the two – per user will showcase the items of the individual user and all users will showcase the items that are available for everyone.
Suppose, two members of a family are using the same PC with two separate accounts and both of them has their own preference of Start Menu items and by going to the location, they can individually customize their likings.
So, remembering the things, let us interpret the steps for How to Find Start Menu Folder Location in Windows 10 to renovate according to your vantage, clear clutter furthermore place items with a short method and explore yourself to another world of customization.
Method to Find Start Menu Folder Location in Windows 10
- Jointly strike Win and R keys to permit the Run to appear on screen where you can input these address accordingly –
Per user Location
C:\Users\[username]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu
- But this address will permit you to access you the exact location when the [username] will be replaced/substituted by the actual username of your computer.
All users Location
C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu
The Start Menu locations do not comprise the Metro apps and in any circumstance, if you are fervent to deal with them, you must execute it. We covered many articles on Start Menu and we hope that along with this, you can also find your queries answered there.
Many users prefer to maintain every single thing on their machine and want to maintain things in their perfect places and also adopt all the significant measures to keep the locations tidy and clean. Hence, once such example that people are occupied is to edit, organize and clean the Start Menu.
Start by opening File Explorer and then navigating to the folder where Windows 10 stores your program shortcuts: %AppData%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs. Opening that folder should display a list of program shortcuts and subfolders.
- Where is the Start Menu folder in Windows 10?
- How do I change the Start Menu folder in Windows 10?
- How do I add files to the Start menu in Windows 10?
- How do I add Start menu to Windows 10?
- How do I remove the Classic Start menu in Windows 10?
- How do I clean up the Start menu in Windows 10?
- Where is Start menu in File Explorer?
- How do I pin something to Start menu?
- How do I add the steam shortcut to the Start menu in Windows 10?
- How do I show all apps in the Start menu in Windows 10?
- Does Windows 10 have classic view?
- Is Classic Start Menu safe?
- What does the Start menu look like in Windows 10?
Where is the Start Menu folder in Windows 10?
In Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows Server 2012, Windows 8 and Windows 10, the folder is located in » %appdata%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu » for individual users, or » %programdata%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu » for the shared portion of the menu.
How do I change the Start Menu folder in Windows 10?
Head to Settings > Personalization > Start. On the right, scroll all the way to the bottom and click the “Choose which folders appear on Start” link. Choose whatever folders you want to appear on the Start menu.
How do I add files to the Start menu in Windows 10?
To add a folder to Start menu, you should right-click the desktop and select New > Shortcut. That will then open the window in the shot directly below. Select Browse, choose a folder to add to Start menu, press Next and then Finish.
How do I add Start menu to Windows 10?
To add programs or apps to the Start menu, follow these steps:
- Click the Start button and then click the words All Apps in the menu’s lower-left corner. …
- Right-click the item you want to appear on the Start menu; then choose Pin to Start. …
- From the desktop, right-click desired items and choose Pin to Start.
How do I remove the Classic Start menu in Windows 10?
To uninstall Classic Shell, follow the below steps:
- Press Windows + X keys, and select Control Panel.
- Look for the Programs and Features.
- Click on the Programs and Features option to open it on a new window.
- Right-click on Classic Shell and choose Uninstall option.
How do I clean up the Start menu in Windows 10?
The best thing to do is uninstall these apps. In the search box, start typing «add» and the Add or remove programs option will come up. Click it. Scroll on down to the offending app, click it, and then click Uninstall.
Where is Start menu in File Explorer?
When you right-click the Start menu in Windows 7, you just get the generic “Open Windows Explorer” option, which takes you to the Libraries view. Instead, click Start to open the Start menu, right-click the “All Programs” option, and then choose “Open” to head to your personal user-specific start menu folder.
How do I pin something to Start menu?
Pin and unpin apps to the Start menu
- Open the Start menu, then find the app you want to pin in the list or search for it by typing the app name in the search box.
- Press and hold (or right-click) the app, then select Pin to Start .
- To unpin an app, select Unpin from Start.
How do I add the steam shortcut to the Start menu in Windows 10?
Click or tap on your Steam game’s name to open a contextual menu, and then press “Pin to Start.” Alternatively, you can drag and drop the shortcut from the Steam folder into the tiles section on the right. Your Steam game is now pinned to Start. Click or tap on its shortcut to launch it and play.
How do I show all apps in the Start menu in Windows 10?
See all your apps in Windows 10
- To see a list of your apps, select Start and scroll through the alphabetical list. …
- To choose whether your Start menu settings show all your apps or only the most used ones, select Start > Settings > Personalization > Start and adjust each setting you want to change.
Does Windows 10 have classic view?
Easily Access the Classic Personalization Window
By default, when you right-click on the Windows 10 desktop and select Personalize, you are taken to the new Personalization section in PC Settings. … You can add a shortcut to the desktop so you can quickly access the classic Personalization window if you prefer it.
Is Classic Start Menu safe?
The site says its currently available file is safe, but before you install any software you have downloaded, make sure your computer’s security software is on and up-to-date.
What does the Start menu look like in Windows 10?
Browse Encyclopedia. The Windows 10 Start menu is a table of contents to all the apps (programs), folders and contacts you use often. In Desktop mode, all the app icons appear in an alphabetical list on the left side of the screen, and they can be made to appear on the right side as tiles.
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The Startup folder in Windows 11/10 contains a list of shortcuts of those applications that start when your Windows start. Earlier, you could easily access the Windows 7 startup folder from Start Menu > Startup. But where is the Startup folder in Windows 11/10?
What is Windows Startup folder?
The Startup folder in Windows OS is a folder where the operating system places shortcuts of programs that are needed to start with Windows. It is just one of such locations. If you open it, you will see a list of program shortcuts for apps that are meant to run automatically whenever the computer boots up.
To open the Windows 11/10 Startup folder:
- Open the WinX Menu
- Select Run to open the Run box
- Type shell:startup and hit Enter to open the Current Users Startup folder
- Type shell:common startup and hit Enter to open the All Users Startup folder.
Where is the Startup folder in Windows 11/10?
The Current Users Startup folder in Windows 11/10 is located at:
C:\Users\Username\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
These programs start up for the current logged-in user only. To directly access this folder, open Run, type shell:startup and hit Enter.
Or to quickly open the folder, press WinKey, type shell:startup and hit Enter.
Startup folder in Windows 11/10
The All Users Windows 11/10 Startup folder is located at:
C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\StartUp
These programs start up for all users. To open this folder, bring up the Run box, type shell:common startup and hit Enter.
Or to open the folder quickly, you can press WinKey, type shell:common startup and hit Enter.
You can add shortcuts of the programs you want to start with your Windows in this folder.
Related: There are no startup items to display
How do I change what programs run at startup in Windows 11/10?
You may use msconfig in Windows 7 or Task Manager in Windows 11/10 to manage startup programs.
You can also delay Startup Programs or control the order in which they load when Windows boots.
This post on Windows Registry Startup Paths may also interest you.
Anand Khanse is the Admin of TheWindowsClub.com, a 10-year Microsoft MVP (2006-16) & a Windows Insider MVP (2016-2022). Please read the entire post & the comments first, create a System Restore Point before making any changes to your system & be careful about any 3rd-party offers while installing freeware.