Keylink

The last steps of an installation process usually consist of the choice of shortcuts, which can be in the Start Menu, desktop, and more. However, to avoid spending a lot of time to look for a program of interest, you can use specialized applications like Keylink to read existing entries and create an intuitive, alternative launch method.

At first the application offers to run a wizard so you can easily scan a specific folder and automatically map it out. Within a few steps you get to choose not only a location, but also narrow down results with filters to include, or exclude different types of formats, or even look for items based on text strings.

You’re not forced to go through with the wizard configuration, so you can first check out the set of features. Sadly, adding files later on isn’t done through drag and drop. On the other hand, there’s quite a variety of input options, such as files, folders, directory content, custom type of entry, URL, and even Windows command.

All items you add are initially shown in a rather compact window, but there’s the possibility to have it resized by simply dragging the borders around. A scrollbar is automatically included, while visual tweaking makes it possible to change the skin, and adjust the transparency level to make it blend with your desktop.

The application can be set to automatically run with Windows so that it’s ready by the time you reach the desktop. This option shows up on initial launch, and can also be manually toggled from the options menu. For more flexibility, hotkey support makes it easy to bring the launcher up from the tray area, or even launch specific elements this way.

All things considered, we can safely state that Keylink can help you create a neat, custom launcher for programs, games, websites, and even special commands you frequently use. Hotkey support greatly extends flexibility, while the initial wizard configurator helps you configure the entire list with little effort.