Patchpae2.exe
: To allow the modified kernel to run, the tool also patches the boot loader ( winload.exe ) to skip digital signature verification.
The core of the issue lies in . While a standard 32-bit operating system is mathematically capped at addressing 2322 to the 32nd power
The Digital Alchemist’s Tool: An Essay on PatchPae2.exe In the history of personal computing, few software artifacts represent the struggle between artificial limitations and raw hardware potential as poignantly as PatchPae2.exe . It is a utility born of necessity, a scalpel used by power users to perform "brain surgery" on the Windows kernel. Its primary mission is simple yet radical: to unlock the 4 GB RAM barrier on 32-bit versions of Windows 7, 8, and 10. The Architect of Memory
PatchPae2.exe , created by the developer , acts as a bypass. It functions by:
: It patches ntoskrnl.exe (or ntkrnlpa.exe on older versions) to ignore the hard-coded license limits that prevent the OS from utilizing higher memory addresses.
: Instead of overwriting the original system, it creates a new boot entry, allowing users to choose between the standard "safe" Windows and the "unlocked" PAE version. The Alchemy of "Number Go Up" Thread: PAE Windows kernel patch - TTLG
bytes (roughly 4 GB) of memory, modern x86 processors are capable of much more through a three-level address translation scheme. Microsoft, however, historically restricted consumer versions of 32-bit Windows to the 4 GB limit, citing driver compatibility and system stability.
Features
How do I configure Start Menu?
Either right-click Start button and click "Properties" or right-click opened Start Menu itself and choose "Properties" context menu item.
Can I use app without start menu, just for skinning / jump list / awesomeness?
Yes. You can select taskbar and start meanu styles separately.
Can StartIsBack/StartAllBack break my system?
No. If you experience issues with old app on too recent Windows update, just hold Escape key when logging in to disable all functionality. PatchPae2.exe
How do I uninstall StartIsBack/StartAllBack?
As expected: go to Control Panel - Programs and Features, find StartIsBack and click Uninstall.
Trial, licensing and activation
How trial version works?
There are no limitations in trial version. After installing it runs for 30 days.
If you don't activate it with license number you bought within 30 days, it will still work, but in limited mode:
Start Menu will be blank and sad; every boot you'll be nagged about evaluation period over.
Trial period runs for each user which have installed StartIsBack on one PC separately.
What is activation and why is it needed? : To allow the modified kernel to run,
Activation is a process of validating your license online.
It ties your computer to your license via online service.
It is required in order to make sure license use is not abused.
One license key allows you to activate a limited number of computers.
How my computer is identified?
Your computer is uniquely identified by motherboard unique number and hard disk physical serial number OS is installed to.
What if I change hardware configuration of my PC or replace it?
If you change both hard disk and motherboard, you will need to activate your license again as modified PC will count as new.
You can activate your license on new PC after 30 days since you used license on the old PC, so you may need to wait while trial period is over. It is a utility born of necessity, a
Does StartIsBack/StartAllBack "phone home"?
No information is collected about your PC hardware or software.
It does not use Internet connection for license validation purposes except the moment you activate it.
Online activation service does not collect your IP address or any other information which could identify you or your computer.
Computer unique identifiers are transferred in hash form, which does not allow anyone else to view it.
Also: automatic new version checking functionality requires Internet connection.
How many times can I reinstall / reactivate?
There is no limitation on how many times you can activate an installation on the same PC.
Does my license expire?
No, your license will never expire. New versions of the app for new OS / upgrades may require an license upgrade payment.
: To allow the modified kernel to run, the tool also patches the boot loader ( winload.exe ) to skip digital signature verification.
The core of the issue lies in . While a standard 32-bit operating system is mathematically capped at addressing 2322 to the 32nd power
The Digital Alchemist’s Tool: An Essay on PatchPae2.exe In the history of personal computing, few software artifacts represent the struggle between artificial limitations and raw hardware potential as poignantly as PatchPae2.exe . It is a utility born of necessity, a scalpel used by power users to perform "brain surgery" on the Windows kernel. Its primary mission is simple yet radical: to unlock the 4 GB RAM barrier on 32-bit versions of Windows 7, 8, and 10. The Architect of Memory
PatchPae2.exe , created by the developer , acts as a bypass. It functions by:
: It patches ntoskrnl.exe (or ntkrnlpa.exe on older versions) to ignore the hard-coded license limits that prevent the OS from utilizing higher memory addresses.
: Instead of overwriting the original system, it creates a new boot entry, allowing users to choose between the standard "safe" Windows and the "unlocked" PAE version. The Alchemy of "Number Go Up" Thread: PAE Windows kernel patch - TTLG
bytes (roughly 4 GB) of memory, modern x86 processors are capable of much more through a three-level address translation scheme. Microsoft, however, historically restricted consumer versions of 32-bit Windows to the 4 GB limit, citing driver compatibility and system stability.
Buy Personal Edition license
You can buy personal license with PayPal or direct card payment (with Gumroad). All payments are processed securely.
You should receive license key to your buyer e-mail address in several minutes after payment.
Please check your spam folder. If you don't receive email in reasonable time, please try resending your license key
Personal License can be used only for personal purposes. You must agree to be bound by terms of license agreement.
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Business Edition license
If you want to use program at business environment, you should buy Business License.
It is perfectly suited for corporate use: 100% compatible with all Windows 7 start menu group policies and settings + has additional group policies which will help you restrict features
as well as customize appearance.
Additional features provided by Business License
- Offline license activation (Only licenses for 1000PC and up).
- Priority e-mail support.
- Future optional updates.
Business Edition License Agreement
Mini-FAQ
Does Business license requires downloading special version?
No. Currently, Business license key is applicable to standard program version you download.
Can I split, resell my license key?
No. You can't resell, split, sublicense, lease or rent your license key. You may want to resell Personal Edition instead.
How do I proceed with offline activation?
Offline activation is possible with StartIsBack+ version 1.7.5 and later and only available to license keys for 1000PC or more. To use it, either:
- Prepare OS image with StartIsBack+ installed and activated online; such image won't be tied to hardware, or
- Save activation response when using 'Activate by web browser' request and use it on another PC, or
- Contact support
Buy Business Edition License Key
You should receive license key to your Paypal buyer e-mail address in several minutes after payment.
Please check your spam folder.
If you don't receive email in reasonable time, please contact me
Sorry, but there are no alternate payment methods now.
Query license information
If you have lost or never received your license key, use the form below.
General support
If you have licensing or urgent support questions, please email me to 
StartIsBack MSFN forum