The Start menu acts as a gateway to all your installed programs and system function controls. It is always within reach when you use Windows XP, and you can return to it at any time by clicking its button on the taskbar.

The Start menu contains all that you need to use Windows. With it, you can:

  • Launch programs
  • Open recently used files
  • Customize your computer with Control Panel
  • Get help with Help and Support
  • Search for files on your computer or online with Search
  • And much more

Some items in the Start menu have a right pointing arrow known as a chevron, meaning additional options are available on a sub-menu. Hover over an item with an arrow to display the additonal menu.

The left side of the Start menu shows your most frequently used programs. The top left shows your default Web browser and e-mail client. Additional programs can also be pinned.