1. Open GiliSoft EXE Lock
Start EXE Lock on the Windows computer where unauthorized programs need to be restricted.
Stop Selected Windows Programs Before They Open
Removing a desktop shortcut does not stop a program from running. A user may still open the app from the Start menu, its installation folder, a search result, or another shortcut. For reliable program control, the launch target itself needs a policy.
GiliSoft EXE Lock lets you add selected desktop apps and supported Store Apps to a protected list. Choose Direct Block for programs that should never open, or Password Verification when an authorized person may release the app temporarily.
Recommended choice: use GiliSoft EXE Lock when the goal is blocking specific Windows programs while leaving approved applications available.
How to Block a Program from Running
2. Open the correct app list
Choose Desktop Apps (EXE) for traditional programs or Store Apps (UWP) for supported Microsoft Store targets.
3. Add the restricted program
Click Add or drag the program target into the list. Confirm the displayed app name and executable path.
4. Select Direct Block
Choose Direct Block when the program must be prevented from starting without displaying a password prompt.
5. Use Password Verification when needed
If supervisors or parents still need access, choose Password Verification so the program opens only after approval.
6. Review blocked attempts
Check the dashboard and logs to see recent intercept records and confirm that the launch policy is active.
Programs You May Want to Block
Games and entertainment software
Stop selected games, media players, launchers, and entertainment apps from opening during work or study time.
Chat and social applications
Restrict messaging, social, or communication apps on computers intended for customer service, training, or focused work.
Admin and system utilities
Keep configuration tools, remote access programs, uninstallers, and internal utilities away from casual users.
Paid or sensitive business software
Control access to finance, HR, design, editing, inventory, and other applications with licensed or private data.
Direct Block or Password Verification?
Use Direct Block for prohibited apps
The program is prevented from starting with no user interaction. This fits apps that should remain unavailable on the computer.
Use Password Verification for controlled access
The app may open only after the correct password is entered, which suits supervisor, parent, or administrator approval.
Use Temporary Unlock for short access
Temporarily release protected applications when authorized maintenance or supervised use is needed.
Use the whitelist for approved apps
Keep system-critical and trusted entries away from the lock list to reduce accidental restrictions.
Common Program Blocking Scenarios
Block programs on office computers
Limit shared workstations to approved business apps and prevent unrelated or sensitive tools from opening.
Block games during study time
Keep a Windows PC focused on classes, homework, training, or online lessons without uninstalling every game.
Protect front-desk and public PCs
Allow required service apps while blocking browsers, utilities, editors, or other software outside the computer's purpose.
Prevent unauthorized business app access
Require approval before finance, management, client, remote-support, or licensed production tools can run.
Related Windows App Control Guides
Lock desktop apps on Windows 11
For Windows 11 instructions, see how to lock desktop apps on Windows 11.
Password protect an EXE file
For password-gated launches, read how to password protect an EXE file on Windows.
Prevent other users from opening programs
For shared-PC access control, read how to prevent users from opening programs on Windows.
Block websites instead
If the restriction is about web access rather than installed software, see GiliSoft WebLock.
Block Programs on Windows FAQ
Can I block a program without uninstalling it?
Yes. EXE Lock can prevent the selected program from launching while leaving the application installed.
Can an administrator still open a blocked program?
Choose Password Verification or temporarily unlock protection when an authorized person needs access.
Can I block Microsoft Store apps?
The new EXE Lock interface includes a Store Apps (UWP) area for supported modern Windows app targets.
Can I see attempted launches?
Yes. The dashboard and logs show blocked attempts and recent intercept activity.
Block selected Windows programs before they run
Use GiliSoft EXE Lock to apply direct block rules, password verification, temporary unlock, whitelist control, and intercept logs.
Buy EXE Lock