Enable the missing File menu bar

Question

Enable the missing Windows File menu bar.

Answer

New versions of Microsoft programs including Microsoft Windows Media Player, Internet Explorer 7, and Office 07 are getting rid of the traditional menu bar. Below are the steps that can be followed to enable this menu bar either temporarily or permanently in each of these programs.

Use the Alt key

At any time a user can press their Alt key on the keyboard to temporarily display the Window menu bar or a listing of the items that are normally displayed on this bar.

This will allow users to keep the menu bar hidden and only use the bar if and when needed. If you wish for this bar to always be displayed follow the below steps.

Right-click top of program window.

If you wish for the menu to be permanently displayed follow the below steps.

Windows Media Player

Press the Alt key and click Show Classic Menu.

Internet Explorer 7

Right-click on an empty portion of the top of the Window. For example, right-click next to the Favorites gold star and in the menu that appears click Menu Bar.

Additional information

  • See the menu bar definition for further information and related links.