Though the Start menu in Windows 7 provides a handy shortcut to quickly open up the Control Panel when we need to change any setting, at times it can also lead to unwanted repercussions in case other users (children, colleagues etc.) make unwanted changes in the default settings. If you would like to remove the Control Panel from the Start menu in order to prevent this from happening, here is a simple tutorial to help you do that:
1. Right-click on the taskbar and head over to Properties.
2. Select Start Menu tab and click on Customize button.
3. A new window will show up with display options for Control Panel, Computer, Games etc. Under the Control Panel options, check the ‘Don’t display this item‘ option and click on OK. The Control Panel will disappear from the Start menu list.
How to Access the Control Panel Now?
Now whenever you need to access the Control Panel, you will have to type ‘control’ in the programs and files search. By doing so, the Control Panel will appear as a found program and you can easily access it from there.