Earlier I wrote about how you can use limited access to put Windows 8.1 in kiosk mode, which basically allows you to run only one application on the system, and that’s it. It’s great for any public computer that you want to have a high level of control over.
In Windows 10, the procedure has changed a bit and this article will show you how to do the same, only with new steps. Basically, you create a new local user account on your Windows 10 computer and set which app you want the user to be able to run. Apps can only be Windows Universal Store apps, which is a bit limiting. There is a way to add more than one application and use traditional Windows applications (EXE programs), but you will have to use the much more advanced and complex Windows Configuration Designer
Configure Kiosk Mode in Windows 10
The easiest way is to click Start, then Settings, then Accounts, and then Family & Other People.
At the bottom you will see the “Other people” section and the “Configure restricted access” link. If you do not already have a second account on your computer, you will need to click on the Add someone else to this computer link.
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If your current account is using a Microsoft account, it will try to nudge you to set up another Microsoft account that won’t work for the assigned access. Instead, click on the link that says I do not have this person’s login details.
It will try to force you to create a new Microsoft account, but again, we don’t want to. Instead, click on the bottom “Add user without a Microsoft account.”
Give the kiosk account a name and password. You will also need to enter a password hint.
Now click on the “Configure Assigned Access” link and click on “Select Account”. Select the account you just created and click Select Application.
That’s all. Restart your computer and sign in to your new account. The user will be able to see only one application in full screen mode and nothing else. The only way they can even log out is by pressing CTRL + ALT + DELETE, which will take them to the login page. Here they will be able to see other user accounts, so make sure they are all secure.
Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer are missing from the list of apps, so it’s a bit frustrating. You’d think they’d allow at least Edge since it’s a Microsoft product. As I mentioned above, if you want to be able to choose your own program and multiple programs, you will have to use the Windows Configuration Designer, which is more complex but definitely doable. If you have any questions, please leave a comment. Enjoy!
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