All Windows 7/8/10 users have the ability to change the look of their computing experience. This includes cosmetic changes such as the screen saver and lock screen in Windows 10. However, many administrators are denying users access to some customization features to create a consistent work environment. Learn how to prevent users from changing the screensaver in Windows 7/8/10.
Why prevent users from changing the screen saver?
Many years ago, when everyone was using large TV-type CRT monitors, screen burnout was a real problem that cost companies billions in replacement and repair costs. Modern LCD and LED monitors are less prone to screen burn-in. Regardless, many companies require their PC users to support the screen saver to save money and prevent replacement costs.
Unfortunately, it is difficult to control all users when it comes to PC settings like screen savers. Administrators fix this problem by installing screen savers on many of the computers they are responsible for; by using Group Policy, they prevent users from changing the splash screen.
Note that preventing users from changing the screen saver does not disable or prevent it from starting. It simply locks the current screen saver settings so that they cannot be changed unless the admin user brings them back.
Prevent users from changing screen saver settings
Log in to Windows using an account with administrator rights. Click Start Run to open the Run dialog box. If you don’t have the Run command on the Start menu, hold down the Windows key on your keyboard and press the R key. In the Run dialog box, type gpedit.msc and click OK.
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You have just opened the Local Group Policy Editor. Note that there are expandable folders in the left pane. Open the folder in
User Configuration Administrative Templates Control Panel Personalization.
The right pane now displays local group policies located in the Personalization folder. Find and double-click the policy titled Prevent Screen Saver Changes.
You should now see the Prevent Splash Screen Changes window. If you or no one else has ever changed this setting before, it should still default to Not Configured. Select the Enabled option, click OK, and you’re done.
While not as important as it was many years ago, many administrators choose to install screensavers on PCs in a production environment to prevent screen burns and then prevent users from changing them. Some companies require all users to use a specific splash screen for a more professional look in front of clients.
By denying users the ability to change the screensaver, there is no need to worry about customers seeing the sea of ??personal photos and other images displayed on computer screens in the office.
This also ensures that the screen does not burn out if the user only displays one image on the screen as a splash screen. The cost savings with this option can be significant in offices where hundreds, if not thousands, of computers are deployed.
If you are using Windows 10 in your environment and no longer use screen savers, but rely on the lock screen, you can change some settings in the following place in Group Policy:
Computer Configuration – Administrative Templates – Control Panel – Personalization
Here you can force user to use specific lock screen image and login image, prevent users from changing lock screen, etc. Enjoy!
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