Windows Game Control Guide

How to Block Games on a Windows PC

You do not need to uninstall every game to keep a Windows computer focused on homework, training, office work, or family rules. GiliSoft EXE Lock can directly block selected games and launchers or require a parent or administrator password before they open.

Block games without uninstallingLock game launchersParent password approvalAttempt logs
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Stop Games from Running Without Removing Them

Uninstalling a game is often inconvenient. It removes files, settings, updates, and saved configurations, while the game may still be needed during approved hours. Hiding a shortcut is also ineffective because the game can be opened from search, the Start menu, an installation folder, or its launcher.

GiliSoft EXE Lock controls the launch itself. Add the game executable, launcher, or supported Store app target, then choose Direct Block for no access or Password Verification when a parent, teacher, or administrator may approve play.

Recommended choice: use GiliSoft EXE Lock when you want to restrict selected games while keeping approved school, work, and family applications available.
GiliSoft EXE Lock

How to Block a Game on Windows

1. Open GiliSoft EXE Lock

Start EXE Lock on the Windows PC where selected games need to be restricted.

2. Identify the game or launcher

Find the main game executable, Steam-style launcher, desktop shortcut, or supported Store game target.

3. Add it to the protected list

Use Desktop Apps (EXE) for traditional games or Store Apps (UWP) for supported Microsoft Store games.

4. Choose Direct Block

Prevent the game from starting when play should not be allowed on the computer.

5. Use password approval if needed

Select Password Verification when a parent or administrator should be able to approve a game launch.

6. Check recent attempts

Review dashboard counts and intercept logs to see whether someone tried to open a protected game.

What Gaming Software Can You Restrict?

Desktop PC games

Add the main EXE file for traditional installed games and prevent it from launching.

Game launchers

Lock the launcher used to discover, update, purchase, or start multiple games from one account.

Microsoft Store games

Use the Store Apps (UWP) list for supported games installed through the Microsoft Store.

Portable games and shortcuts

Add portable game executables or shortcuts that users might otherwise launch from another folder or removable drive.

Choose the Right Game Lock Policy

Direct Block for no-play periods

The protected game is prevented from starting without displaying a password prompt.

Password Verification for parent approval

The game opens only when an authorized person enters the release password.

Temporary Unlock for supervised play

Release protection briefly without removing the game from the protected list.

Whitelist for trusted apps

Keep required school, work, communication, and system applications outside the game restriction list.

Common Reasons to Block Games

Homework and study time

Keep a family PC available for schoolwork and online classes while selected games remain restricted.

Office and productivity computers

Prevent games and launchers from opening on shared workstations, front-desk PCs, and support computers.

School and computer labs

Allow educational applications while stopping games that distract from lessons or consume lab time.

Shared family accounts

Apply app-level restrictions when several people use the same Windows account or computer.

Related Windows App Control Guides

Block Games on Windows FAQ

Can I block a game without uninstalling it?

Yes. EXE Lock can prevent the game or launcher from opening while leaving its files and settings installed.

Can parents allow a game with a password?

Yes. Use Password Verification when a parent should be able to approve a protected game launch.

Can I block Microsoft Store games?

The new interface includes a Store Apps (UWP) area for supported Microsoft Store app and game targets.

Can I tell whether someone tried to play?

Yes. The dashboard and logs show blocked attempts and recent intercept activity.

Block games and launchers without uninstalling them

Use GiliSoft EXE Lock to apply direct block rules, password approval, temporary unlock, whitelist control, and attempt logs on a Windows PC.

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