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In Windows XP, “All Programs” was the Start menu area for browsing program shortcuts and folders. In Windows 11, Microsoft calls the related alphabetical list of installed applications “All apps.” The labels refer to similar ways of finding software, but they belong to different Windows versions and menu designs.
What did “All Programs” mean in Windows?
“All Programs” was a Windows XP Start menu label. Selecting it opened an area containing shortcuts to programs, often grouped into folders. The historical menu could draw shortcuts from locations specific to a user as well as shared locations on the computer. CPU Special Issue’s historical reference describes that older arrangement.
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What does Windows call the app list now?
Microsoft’s current Windows 11 guidance uses the label “All apps” for the Start menu’s list of installed applications. The list can be displayed in different ways: Microsoft describes category, grid, and list views, so there is not just one fixed presentation. Microsoft’s Start menu guidance also covers Windows 10, whose Start menu structure differs from Windows 11.
How the two terms compare
| Windows version | Label | What it presents |
|---|---|---|
| Windows XP | All Programs | Program shortcuts and folders in the Start menu |
| Windows 11 | All apps | An alphabetical list of installed applications, with category, grid, or list views available |
These terms describe related Start menu functions, not an identical interface carried unchanged across versions. Windows 10 has its own Start menu structure; Microsoft’s guidance states that Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
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