StartIsBack works by patching ExplorerFrame.dll and twinui.pcshell. When Microsoft pushes a silent update (via Windows Defender or Cumulative Update), it often re-verifies these files. If the hash does not match the original, Windows reverts the patch, leaving the StartIsBack service running but with no button to attach to—hence, the Sad Face placeholder.
The developer behind StartIsBack has largely moved on to StartAllBack (for Windows 11). If you are on Windows 11 and seeing a persistent sad face, you should:
If you are a Windows user who cherishes the classic, functional aesthetic of Windows 7 or XP, you have likely installed StartIsBack. This utility is a gold standard for restoring the traditional Start Menu on modern versions of Windows (8, 8.1, 10, and 11). However, veterans of the tool know the dread of a specific glitch: The StartIsBack Sad Face. startisback sad face
You click the Start button expecting your familiar list of applications, only to see a grey, depressing emoticon staring back at you: :(
This article dives deep into the "StartIsBack sad face" error. We will explain what it means, why it appears, and the step-by-step solutions to banish that frowning icon forever. StartIsBack works by patching ExplorerFrame
Don’t panic. You don’t need to reinstall Windows. Here are the most effective ways to banish the sad face.
1. The "Change Avatar" Trick (The Quickest Fix) Since the issue is usually a corrupted or missing avatar path, forcing Windows to create a new one often solves the glitch instantly. Windows reverts the patch
2. Reset the StartIsBack Configuration Sometimes the software itself just needs a refresh.
3. Check the File Path
If you are a power user, navigate to C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\AccountPictures. If this folder is empty or contains corrupted files, StartIsBack will have nothing to display. Add a valid image file here, and the sad face should disappear.
This is the most effective fix for persistent sad faces.