Since its inception in Windows 95, I’ve always been a fan of the Run command. I was never big on making a huge taskbar nor loading my desktop full of shortcuts. The Run command allowed me to quickly access applications or documents in which the path was known (ie. the calculator or command prompt).

When I began using Windows 7, I was a little disappointed that Microsoft took out the Run command in the Start Menu. A search box appears in its place and does provide much of the same functionality as the Run command. Being the sentimental guy that I am, I felt that the Run command has aided me throughout the years, why shouldn’t I return the favor and restore it to its rightful place on my Start Menu.

Step 1: Open the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties via the Control Panel.

Step 2: Click on the Start Menu tab and then click on Customize.

Step 3: In the list of Start Menu options, select the Run command check box. The Run command will be displayed on the right side of the Start Menu.

Tip: You can also access the Run command by pressing + R.