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Other Operating Systems => Windows 8 => Windows 8.1 Help and How to | Activation => Topic started by: javajolt on February 12, 2012, 05:17:00 PM

Title: Configure Windows 8 to Run Only Specific Programs
Post by: javajolt on February 12, 2012, 05:17:00 PM
If you’re a network administrator for a small business or even your household, you can restrict which programs users are able to run in Windows 7. This method also works in Windows 8 Developer Preview.
 
Note: This process uses Local Group Policy Editor which is not available in Home editions of Windows 7. Also, you’ll need Administrator rights to set it up.
 
As a network administrator you can create a “white list’ of only specific programs users are able to run.
 
First, click Start and type: gpedit.msc into the Search box and hit Enter.

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To access Local Group Policy Editor in Windows 8, at the main Metro screen just begin to type: gpedit.msc. Then tap or click the gpedit icon that displays under Apps on the left.

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Local Group Policy Editor opens. Navigate to User Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> System. Then double click on Run Only Specified Windows Applications.

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Select Enabled then under Options click the Show button.

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Type in the list of programs you want the user to be able to run, then click OK. Then save your settings.

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When a user accesses programs on the Allowed List, they work just fine.

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However, when the user tries to access a program not on the Allowed List, they’ll see the following error message.

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Then you’ll be able to make the decision if the user can use the program or not. This is handy if you’re setting up a kiosk or a public computer too.