Windows 8.1: Remove the start button

In this practical tip, we explain how to remove the start button under Windows 8.1.

Remove start button in Windows 8.1

1. Download the StartIsGone tool.
2. Unzip the file by right-clicking on the file and choosing "Extract All".
3. Select the x64 or x86 variant depending on the processor type and click on "StartIsGone".
4. The start icon disappears immediately.
5. In the notification bar at the bottom right of the task bar, you will find the link to StartIsGone.
6. Right click on it. Exit the tool with "Exit" and get the start button back.
7. With "Run at startup" the tool starts automatically when the system is started.
8. With "Hide tray icon" you hide the icon in the notification bar. You will get it back when you start StartIsGone again.

In another practical tip, we explain what you have to do if the Catalyst Control Center no longer starts under Windows 8.1.