Begin with the menu style, then configure controls, shortcuts, search, and appearance in that order. Save a working baseline before importing someone else’s skin or settings file.
Pick a layout before adding a skin
The project documents three classic layout choices: Classic, two-column Classic, and Windows 7 style. A skin changes the presentation within a compatible style; it is not a universal conversion of the Windows desktop.
Open Settings for Open-Shell Menu from the installed shortcuts. Select a supplied style, apply it, and check a desktop app and a local folder. Use Show all settings when you need an advanced option, not because every available preference should be changed.
A practical configuration order
- Choose the menu layout and check whether long application names remain readable.
- Set mouse and Windows-key behavior in Controls, retaining access to the Windows menu.
- Add the folders and commands you use. Test the target of every new item.
- Adjust the search box and verify both result selection and application launching.
- Apply a compatible skin or custom button, then recheck display scaling and keyboard focus.
- Export a fresh XML backup and save external resources separately.
Explore each setting in context
Choose Classic, two-column, or Windows 7 menu style
Open-Shell provides three menu layouts: Classic, Classic with two columns, and Windows 7 style. Pick the navigation.
Customize Open-Shell menu items and order
Use Customize Start Menu to arrange destinations and commands, rather than editing the installed program. Choose items by.
Choose what the Windows key opens
Check the Controls settings when the Windows key and Start-button click open different menus. Configure those actions.
Install and select an Open-Shell skin
Choose a skin that matches the menu style and keep a built-in skin as a recovery option. Skinning changes presentation; it.
Questions & answers
Which menu styles are available?
The project describes Classic, two-column Classic, and Windows 7-style layouts. Appearance options depend on the selected style and skin.
Does an XML backup include every skin image?
No. Save custom skins, button images, and referenced resources separately from the settings export.
Can I change Explorer with the same settings dialog?
Classic Explorer is a separate component with its own settings. Menu settings control the Start-menu component.
Sources & scope
Documentation checked October 30, 2026. These instructions are documentation-led, not a claim of hands-on testing on your Windows build.