How to Add or Remove Apps from the All Apps Section of the Start Menu in Windows 10 and 11 [Updated]

How to Add or Remove Apps from the All Apps Section of the Start Menu in Windows 10 and 11 [Updated]

Navigating computer systems can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for those who are new to them. One common area that many users interact with is the Start Menu, which serves as a central hub for accessing installed applications and features. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to add or remove apps from the All Apps section of the Start Menu in both Windows 10 and Windows 11. This step-by-step tutorial will be simple and straightforward, aiming to empower users, regardless of their computing experience. So feel free to try on.

First thing, let's

Understand the Start Menu

The Start Menu in Windows serves as your gateway to applications, settings, and features on your computer. It typically appears when you click the Windows icon located on the left side of your taskbar. The Start Menu includes several sections, including the All Apps section, which displays a comprehensive list of all installed applications.

Why you have to Customize Your Start Menu?

Customizing your Start Menu can enhance your user experience by:

  • Improving Accessibility: Access your frequently used applications more quickly.
  • Organizing Your Workspace: Reduce clutter and distractions by removing apps you don’t use.
  • Personalizing Your Environment: Make your computer feel more like your personal space.

How to Access the All Apps Section

Accessing the All Apps section of the Start Menu is easy. Follow these steps:

  1. Click on the Windows icon on the taskbar at the bottom of the screen.
  2. In Windows 10, you will see a list of your pinned apps. Look for the "All Apps" option at the top left corner. In Windows 11, simply scroll down as there is no separate "All Apps" button, as the features are integrated into the Start Menu.
  3. Click on “All Apps” (Windows 10) to see a list of applications installed on your computer. In Windows 11, the apps will appear below the pinned section.

Adding Apps to the All Apps Section

Now that you know how to access the All Apps section, let’s discuss how to add apps to it.

Method 1: Pinning Apps from the Start Menu

  1. Open the Start Menu by clicking the Windows icon.
  2. Find the app you want to add.
  3. Right-click on the app and select "Pin to Start." This will pin the app to the Start Menu for easy access.

Method 2: Pinning Apps from the Desktop

If the app you wish to pin is on your desktop, here’s how to add it:

  1. Locate the application icon on your desktop.
  2. Right-click on the icon.
  3. Select "Pin to Start." This will add the app to your Start Menu.

Method 3: Pinning Apps from File Explorer

You can also add applications from File Explorer:

  1. Open File Explorer by clicking on its icon in the taskbar or pressing Windows + E.
  2. Navigate to the folder where your application is stored (typically in C:\Program Files).
  3. Right-click on the application executable (usually has an .exe extension).
  4. Select "Pin to Start." The app will now appear in your Start Menu.

Removing Apps from the All Apps Section

Once you've customized your Start Menu by adding apps, you may also want to remove apps that you no longer need. Here’s how to do it effectively:

Method 1: Unpinning from the Start Menu

  1. Open the Start Menu.
  2. Find the app you want to remove.
  3. Right-click on the app.
  4. Select "Unpin from Start." This removes the app from the Start Menu but does not uninstall it from your computer.

Method 2: Uninstalling Apps

If you want to completely remove an app from your computer, you may need to uninstall it.

  1. Open the Start Menu.
  2. Click on "Settings," which is represented by a gear icon.
  3. Go to "Apps" or "Apps & features."
  4. Scroll through the list or use the search feature to find the app you wish to uninstall.
  5. Click on the app and select "Uninstall." Confirm any prompts, and the app will be removed from your computer.

FAQs

1. What is the All Apps section in the Start Menu?

The All Apps section lists all the applications installed on your Windows computer.

2. Can I add any app to the All Apps section?

Yes, you can add any installed application to the All Apps section by pinning it.

3. Will unpinning an app delete it from my computer?

No, unpinning an app simply removes the shortcut from your Start Menu; the actual application remains installed on your computer.

4. How do I find my installed applications if they are not in the Start Menu?

You can find installed applications through the Settings app under "Apps" or use the search function on your computer.

5. Can I pin folders to the Start Menu?

Yes! You can pin folders in a similar fashion to applications. Locate the folder, right-click, and select "Pin to Start."

Conclusion

Customizing the All Apps section of the Start Menu in Windows 10 and 11 is a straightforward process that can enhance your overall computing experience. Whether you're adding new apps for easy access or removing unnecessary ones to streamline your workflow, mastering this area of Windows will make your daily tasks more efficient and enjoyable.

We hope this guide has provided clear and concise steps to help anyone, regardless of their technical skills, navigate and personalize their Start Menu. Now, go ahead and make your computing environment uniquely yours!


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