Hi,
This information applies to the original release of Windows 8. If you update to Windows 8.1 Microsoft has added the Start button that gives you the ability to get to the Start Screen. This does not return the Start Menu, but if you are ok with the Start Screen
and just want the Start button we recommend getting Windows 8.1. If you have Windows 8.1 or want the Start Menu follow the steps below.
The Start Menu can be made into a toolbar, which allows you access to all the programs you'd normally see in All Programs. To do this follow the steps below.
1. Make sure show hidden files has been enabled.
2. Right-click on the Taskbar and click Toolbars and then New toolbar.
3. Browse to C:\Program Data\Microsoft\Windows and select Start Menu and choose Select Folder
Once the above steps have been completed you'll have a new Start Menu folder with all your programs in the Programs folder.
Hope this helps.