Startmenuexperiencehost.exe: What Is It & How to Disable It

Using the Task Manager is the fastest way to turn off the process

3 min. read

Updated onFebruary 23, 2024

updated onFebruary 23, 2024

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This article explores the StartMenuExperienceHost.exe and details its use and ways to disable it if intended.

Before we dive into it, you should note that this process is an integral part of the Windows operating system, and disabling it will mean some processes may not function as intended.

What is the Start menu experience host?

The StartMenuExperienceHost.exe was associated with the Windows 10 Start menu and has been carried over to the latest edition of the OS.

This process manages the GUI, animations, and other visual elements of theWindows Start menu, such as search functionality, tiles, and customization options.

It runs in the background and is automatically launched when users log into a user account. Also, it has been integrated with theShellExperienceHost.exe(Shell Experience Host) framework, which is responsible for the graphical user interface.

Stopping or disabling the StartMenuExperienceHost.exe process will remove the Start menu functionality and result to live tiles not updating, as well as other UI issues. However, if you must disable this process, we show you the best options below.

How do I disable the StartMenuExperienceHost exe?

1. Using the Task Manager

Using this method, StartMenuExperienceHost.exe will be shut down until you switch user account or restart your computer.

2. Using the Group Policy

Note that this will only end StartMenuExperienceHost.exe until the next restart or till you switch user accounts.

3. Change the file extension

There you go. The StartMenuExperienceHost.exe is an important process on your computer, but using any of the solutions we recommend in this article, you may turn it off.

Importantly, you should read our guide if youcan not open the Task Manager. To learn about other processes, you might want to check ourWhat is TextInputHost.exearticle.

To learn more about similar files, we have a guide onAggregator Host, so don’t miss it.

Startmenuexperiencehost.exe: What Is It & How to Disable It#

What is the Start menu experience host?#

How do I disable the StartMenuExperienceHost exe?#

1. Using the Task Manager#

2. Using the Group Policy#

3. Change the file extension#