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Windows 10 menu issue

John Emmas 20 Reputation points
2026-05-14T11:40:10.17+00:00

Firstly, sorry about the poor quality screenshot. I generally use Snipping Tool for things like this but it never seems to work with menus.

Anyway... my Windows 10 menu is showing a large empty section (in black) at the RHS. Until last week apps were always shown there (I think mostly system apps maybe - like Control Panel?) But all of a sudden they've disappeared. I assume I must've changed some setting inadvertently but can anyone suggest what it might be?

JE-screenshot

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Desktop, Start, and personalization | Start Menu
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  1. John Emmas 20 Reputation points
    2026-05-14T12:25:50.11+00:00

    Thanks for the help guys...

    • @DaveM121 The 3rd party app I'm using is called WindowBlinds but I've been using it for 10 years or more and it never caused this problem before. I tried "Pin to Start" which then shows the app as pinned but still leaves it at the LHS.
    • @Anonymous A couple of weeks ago I installed a trial copy of Norton 360 antivirus and to be fair that coincided with this issue happening (timewise) but uninstalling Norton 360 hasn't helped.

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  2. DaveM121 891K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-05-14T12:15:53.77+00:00

    Your screenshot seems to indicate you are using some utility to customize the Start Menu and Taskbar, is that correct?

    If so, that is the most likely cause of the problem.

    Open the long alphabetical list of installed apps on the start menu, right click one of the apps and select 'Pin to Start', does that add the app back to the Start Menu.

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  3. Senthil kumar 685 Reputation points
    2026-05-14T12:00:57.46+00:00

    Hi John Emmas,

    Are your used any third party cleaning softwares like cleaner or another. suppose to use it will clear all mostly used apps shortcuts also. app will clear that also.

    Thanks.

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