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SMBAct vs StartIsBack

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

SMBAct icon
SMBAct
StartIsBack icon
StartIsBack

SMBAct vs StartIsBack: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

SMBAct: SMBAct is an open-source network analyzer and packet inspection tool for SMB protocol. It allows capturing, monitoring and analysis of SMB sessions to detect suspicious activities, security threats and data leaks.

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

Product Overview

SMBAct
SMBAct

Description: SMBAct is an open-source network analyzer and packet inspection tool for SMB protocol. It allows capturing, monitoring and analysis of SMB sessions to detect suspicious activities, security threats and data leaks.

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

SMBAct
SMBAct Features
  • Network traffic analyzer for SMB protocol
  • Captures, monitors and analyzes SMB sessions
  • Detects security threats, data leaks and suspicious activities
  • Open source tool
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

SMBAct
SMBAct

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Allows deep inspection of SMB traffic
  • Helps identify security issues and data leaks
  • Customizable and extensible

Cons

  • Requires technical expertise to use effectively
  • No official support offered
  • May have limitations in scalability and performance
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

SMBAct
SMBAct
  • Open Source
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

SMBAct
SMBAct
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
StartIsBack
StartIsBack
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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