I have installed Classic Shell. Works well with Win 8 RP. Replace your Start Orb if you cannot live without it.

That's great to hear, after the article I read & posted earlier regarding MS blocking customization with RP. There are many users of Windows 8 CP & RP who are still in a transition period, that aren't ready for full blown Metro yet. The classic Start Orb has been with us for many years, one cannot switch from one extreme to the other overnight.

It has taken me some time & lots of effort, but except for the very recent trick that Drew gave us (which I really like), I've left things "as is". Going to have to learn Metro anyway to move beyond Windows 7, now's as good as time as any.

Still, I have two friends who wants me to install Windows 8 upon retail availability, they want something like the Classic Shell offers. It's my hope, not for my small hobby deal, but for those who wants to move forward & needs this to do so, for this software to remain an option.

I believe that it's important for MS, not to completely abandon all past features (or access to alternatives like the Classic Shell), but to keep an open mind, as in doing so, Windows 8 will have a much better chance at success. We are clearly in a transition period, the better that MS keeps in touch with their user base, the better we'll all adapt.

Cat

I'm getting used to Windows 8 and do not plan to use it on RP.

Stephen, be advised that shortly Win 8 CP will deactivate. This is a time limited beta OS for testing only. You have 2 options:

1) Clean Install Win 8 RP and continue with your testing using this new beta OS

2) Reinstall your original licensed, released OS

Win 8 final release will not be available for sale until sometime in October of this year. You will be forced to make a choice shortly. Better get ready.

This is what happens with beta software.

I just uninstalled Classic Shell. I found it didn't always load so I switched to start Menu 7 Start Menu 7 I had good luck with it last time.
Joe

Joe, I'll have to take that one for a spin myself. Can't say that I'll stick with it, but I'm curious as to how it does. Thanks for the link & reminding us about Start Menu 7.

Cat

I have had no problems at all with Classic Shell. Works wonderfully every time. I would have attempted a re-install.

Originally Posted by Joe S

I just uninstalled Classic Shell. I found it didn't always load so I switched to start Menu 7 Start Menu 7 I had good luck with it last time.
Joe

Joe, many thanks for this one, this is an excellent piece of software, & it works perfectly fine with RP. As soon as I get around to it, I'm also going to do my Windows 7 installs.

Start Menu 7 gives most any option one needs & more. There's even a Pro version of the app, though I don't know how it could be improved.

I highly recommend this to all Win 8 RP & Win 7 users.

Cat

Personally, I find I'm just fine & quite happy using 8 w/out any retro-fits. Put an Applications folder on the Taskbar, bunch of stuff in Desktop Toolbar & life is good . Don't use or visit Start, @ all.

Cheers,
Drew

Actually, I like it better on Windows 7 than Win 8 CP/RP, but it could help new Windows 8 users, once it becomes Retail. There will be many who has had no practice with the new Windows, it would help during the transition period. Some will be older users who really don't care about learning the new way, but needs a new computer. Mainly to check email, pay their bills & share a few photos, then go on about their business.

I can run Win 8 RP "as is", but also realize that there will be those who will have issues. If it takes these type of tools to convert XP users to Windows 8, I'm all for it. The explorer folder shortcut that Drew shared with us does much of the same thing, w/o installing another program. The logoff/restart/shutdown option that Ted shared is also useful.

At any rate, I'm all for choice, regardless of the OS or the brand. Being able to customize Windows 8 (or earlier versions) to suit each user is good, IMO.

Cat