Bring Back the Quick Launch Bar in Windows 8

Introduction

In this article we explain how to restore the Quick Launch Bar in Windows 8.

Procedure to get the Quick Launch Bar back in Windows 8

Step 1

First right-click the Taskbar and then go to "Toolbars" and click "New toolbar...".

 

Step 2

The File Explorer will open up and you'll need to copy the following path in the address bar and click Select Folder.

%appdata%\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch

 

Step 3

If we have a problem getting to it using that path, just navigate to:

C:\Users\user_name\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch

 

Step 4

That will add the Quick Launch toolbar on the Taskbar. Right-click the Taskbar and Unlock it.

 

Step 5

To make it work like it does in XP or Vista, drag it over to the left side where the Start button used to be.

 

Step 6

Then we'll need to drag over the icons already pinned to your Taskbar.

 

Step 7

If this is the first time doing this then it might take a couple of attempts to get everything where you want it. But once you do, right-click the Taskbar and Lock it again. Now right-click the Quick Launch Bar and uncheck both "Show Tile" and "Show Text".

 

Step 8

Now you can drag the program shortcuts and other items you want to it. Or, if you want an easier way to add items, you can add Quick Launch to the Context Menu.

 

Step 9

Here's a look at what it will look like after you've added a few programs to the Quick Launch bar:

 

Step 10

Plus, if we add a Start menu replacement program (Start8) from Stardock or Classic Shell as our favorites then we get in Windows 8 the same look and feel that you were accustomed to in XP and Vista.