Sort your Programs logically in folders and subfolders.

Example1:

Accessories folder (Start -> Programs -> Accessories) already has System Tools subfolder, so move all related programs (antivirus, etc.) there.

Example2:

Make a new Internet folder.
Move all related programs (Internet Explorer, Outlook Express, etc.) to that folder.

This may take a few minutes, but you'll end up with a very short list of Programs – I have 12. But never use them anyway - all my frequently used programs are on the Quick Launch toolbar.

Hope this helps!

tek-ssk,

An alternative to grouping your programs in folders is to right-click the Start button and select Properties. On the Start Menu tab click "Customize." On the Advanced tab of the next dialog check "Scroll programs." This will display your programs in a single scrolling column.

1) good idea, but I can't figure out how to create a new folder in "All Programs"

 

2)Late last night (obviously too late) I came across a window that delt with performance and appearance of the start menu.  I thought it was Start,  properties, start menu, customize, advance.  But this is not it.      (there was an option to set for best visual and best perfomance; and about 10-15 check boxes that changed the way the programs menu looked.  Any ideas? 

Your start menu (All Programs) consists of a combination of two folders:

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu
and
C:\Documents and Settings\{CURRENT_USER_NAME}\Start Menu

The easiest way to get to the first one: Right – click Start button and select Explore All Users.

Steps you described in "2)" will work, but only if you click Customize button next to Classic Start menu.

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@tek-ssk wrote:

1) good idea, but I can't figure out how to create a new folder in "All Programs"

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Tom,

Take a look at this. It illustrates the procedure. (If you are on a dial-up connection you may have to wait until it loads before it displays properly.)

To Denny and 100mph:

 

Thank you for all your help.  Things are much cleaner now and easier to use.

 

Tom