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Open Shell v4.4.170

The classic Start Menu experience for modern Windows

4M+ Downloads
7.5K GitHub Stars
4.8/5 Rating
Windows 7 Windows 8/8.1 Windows 10 Windows 11 Free & Open Source

What is Open Shell?

Open Shell is a powerful, customizable suite of utilities designed to restore classic Windows functionalities to modern versions (Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11).

7.5K GitHub Stars
4M+ Downloads
4.8/5 Rating

Familiar Interface

Brings back the classic Start menu experience you know and love, with extensive customization options.

Enhanced Productivity

Streamline your workflow with explorer enhancements, classic tools, and keyboard navigation.

Total Customization

Personalize your Windows experience with skins, layouts, and custom toolbars to fit your preferences.

Key Components

Open Shell includes three major components, each designed to improve your Windows experience.

Open-Shell Menu

  • Classic style Start Menu for Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11
  • Multiple menu styles: Classic, Two Columns, Windows 7
  • Customizable shortcuts and cascading menus
  • Efficient keyboard navigation
Learn more

Classic Explorer

  • Customizable toolbar with quick commands
  • Status bar showing file size and disk space
  • True folder path display (eliminates breadcrumbs)
  • Customizable navigation pane
Learn more

Classic IE

  • Caption in the title bar showing full site name
  • Security zone in the status bar
  • Progress bar in the status bar
  • Enhanced navigation and usability
Learn more

Download Open Shell Today!

Join thousands of users who have enhanced their Windows experience with Open Shell. Our latest version includes improved compatibility and exciting new features.

  • Free, open-source software
  • Regular updates and community support
  • Compatible with Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11
  • Small installation size, lightweight performance

Latest Version

v4.4.170 - Stable Release

Download Now

~8 MB installer size

Why Users Love Open Shell

Experience the perfect blend of classic functionality and modern design

Improved Performance

Navigate faster with optimized menu loading and responsive interface elements

Ultimate Control

Configure every aspect of your Start Menu, Explorer, and more with extensive options

Modern Integration

Seamless compatibility with latest Windows features while preserving classic functionality

Latest News & Updates

Stay informed about the latest developments, announcements, and tips about Open Shell.

Announcement March 25, 2025

Open Shell 4.4.180 Released

We're excited to announce the release of Open Shell 4.4.180, featuring significant improvements for Windows 11 compatibility, performance enhancements, and several bug fixes reported by our community.

Read full article

Join Our Community

Become part of a vibrant community of Windows enthusiasts. Get help from experienced users, contribute to development, and share your customizations with others.

Join Today!
Get help with configuration
Share your ideas and feedback
Contribute to the project
Design custom skins

Ready to Experience

The Classic Windows Feel?

Return to the familiar Windows interface you love while gaining powerful new features.

One-Click Installation

Simple setup process in just a few seconds

Easy Customization

Personalize every aspect of your interface

Download Open Shell FREE
4M+ downloads 4.8/5 rating