Backup Windows 10 Start Menu Layout: Learn how to save and restore your Windows 10 Start Menu layout effortlessly.

Backing up your Windows 10 Start Menu layout can save you a lot of time during system reinstalls, migrations, or if you maintain a consistent look across multiple devices. This process involves exporting your current Start Menu tile arrangement so you can restore it later or replicate it on another computer. Windows 10 stores the Start Menu layout data in a special file, and exporting this file ensures your tiles, groupings, and shortcuts are preserved. This approach is especially valuable if you rely on a well-organized Start Menu for productivity—or if, like me, you see your digital workspace as carefully and intentionally designed as your physical spaces.

Tips 1:

From a designer’s perspective, the Start Menu is much like a room layout: a well-organized structure supports efficiency and inspires creativity. To make your workspace visually harmonious, consider not just backing up, but also “curating” your Start Menu—perhaps categorizing applications by color, usage frequency, or function, much like you might zone spaces in an open-plan interior. For those interested in extending this design thinking beyond digital, tools such as a Home Designer can help blueprint your physical environment with the same intentionality.

FAQ

Q: How do I back up my Windows 10 Start Menu layout?

A: Press Win+R and enter shell:Local AppData\Microsoft\Windows\Shell. Copy the LayoutModification.xml file or DefaultLayouts.xml (if present) to a safe location. For some versions/builds, the relevant file may not exist, so consider third-party backup tools as well.

Q: Can I restore the Start Menu layout on another computer?

A: Yes, copy your saved LayoutModification.xml file to the same folder on the target machine before logging into your user account for the first time. Administrator rights may be required.

Q: Will this method also back up pinned tiles and app groupings?

A: Yes, the exported layout file preserves tile arrangements, groups, and pinned shortcuts. However, apps must be installed for the pins to work after restoring.

Q: What if I don’t see a LayoutModification.xml file?

A: The file is not always present on all Windows 10 builds. In these cases, consider using PowerShell scripts or third-party utilities that enable Start Menu backup and restore functionality.

Q: Will this affect my desktop or taskbar icons?

A: No, this method only backs up the Start Menu layout. Taskbar and desktop icon arrangements must be managed separately.