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simplewall vs StartIsBack

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

simplewall icon
simplewall
StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack

simplewall vs StartIsBack: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

simplewall: Simplewall is a free and open-source firewall program for Windows. It is lightweight, customizable, and blocks unwanted network connections with advanced filtering rules.

StartIsBack: StartIsBack is a program that restores the classic Start menu interface and other Windows UI features to newer Windows versions like Windows 8 and 10. It brings back the familiar Start menu layout with expandable sections, pinned apps, recent items list, power options and more.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature simplewall StartIsBack
Sugggest Score — —
Category Security & Privacy Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

simplewall
simplewall

Description: Simplewall is a free and open-source firewall program for Windows. It is lightweight, customizable, and blocks unwanted network connections with advanced filtering rules.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

StartIsBack
StartIsBack

Description: StartIsBack is a program that restores the classic Start menu interface and other Windows UI features to newer Windows versions like Windows 8 and 10. It brings back the familiar Start menu layout with expandable sections, pinned apps, recent items list, power options and more.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

simplewall
simplewall Features
  • Inbound/outbound firewall
  • Application rules
  • Network lockdown
  • Customizable GUI
  • Lightweight and fast
StartIsBack
StartIsBack Features
  • Restores classic Start menu interface on Windows 8/8.1/10
  • Lets you customize Start menu layout and style
  • Adds quick access to recently used apps, files, folders
  • Lets you pin apps, programs, files, folders to Start
  • Adds power options like Restart, Sleep, Shut Down
  • Adds desktop context menu options
  • Lets you boot to desktop instead of Start screen

Pros & Cons Analysis

simplewall
simplewall

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Very customizable
  • Easy to use interface
  • Low resource usage
  • Constantly updated

Cons

  • Steep learning curve
  • No pre-defined rulesets
  • Requires manual configuration
  • No phone support
StartIsBack
StartIsBack

Pros

  • Brings back familiar Windows 7 style Start menu
  • Highly customizable layout and appearance
  • Easy to configure and use
  • Lightweight program with little impact on performance

Cons

  • May not appeal to users who prefer Windows 8/10 style Start screen
  • Occasional minor bugs or glitches
  • Lacks some customization options of paid Start menu replacements

Pricing Comparison

simplewall
simplewall
  • Open Source
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

simplewall
simplewall
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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