1. Open GiliSoft EXE Lock
Launch EXE Lock on the Windows 11 PC where selected programs should be restricted.
Lock Selected Windows 11 Desktop Programs
On a shared Windows 11 PC, not every installed app should be available to every user. Browsers, chat tools, games, video editors, remote access utilities, finance software, admin tools, and business programs may need a password before launch.
GiliSoft EXE Lock gives you a focused way to manage this: add desktop apps to the protected target list, decide how the app should be allowed or blocked, and review recent intercept logs when someone tries to open a locked program.
Recommended choice: use GiliSoft EXE Lock when the goal is controlling app launches on Windows 11 rather than locking files, folders, USB devices, or websites.
How to Lock Desktop Apps on Windows 11
2. Choose Desktop Apps (EXE)
Use the Desktop Apps area to manage traditional installed software, portable apps, and executable targets.
3. Add the app you want to lock
Select the target app or drop a shortcut, desktop program, or EXE target into the protected app list.
4. Pick the launch policy
Use Password Verification when approved users can open the app, or Direct Block when the app should not start.
5. Manage whitelist and password
Use Settings to manage the release password, recovery email, and app whitelist so approved or system-critical apps stay safe.
6. Check dashboard and logs
Review protected targets, blocked attempts, and recent intercept records to confirm the policy is working.
Which Windows 11 Apps Can You Lock?
Traditional desktop apps
Lock installed Windows desktop programs such as editors, browsers, chat tools, games, finance apps, and utility software.
EXE-based tools
Protect apps that launch from executable targets so the program cannot open without the selected policy.
Portable and shortcut-based apps
Add shortcuts or app targets used on shared desktops when the visible shortcut alone is not enough control.
Store Apps (UWP)
The new interface also includes a Store Apps area for supported Microsoft Store / UWP app targets.
Why Use EXE Lock on Windows 11?
Simple password gate for apps
Require a password before selected desktop apps launch, without changing the daily Windows 11 desktop layout.
Direct block for no-access apps
Block apps that should not run at all on a shared or managed computer.
Whitelist reduces accidental lockouts
Use the app whitelist so approved entries and protected system processes are not accidentally added to the locked list.
Logs show attempted launches
Recent intercept logs make it easier to understand when locked apps were attempted and whether the policy is active.
Common Windows 11 App Lock Scenarios
Lock games on a shared PC
Keep Windows 11 computers focused on study, work, training, or business use by locking selected games or entertainment apps.
Protect finance and admin tools
Add a password before accounting, HR, management, remote-control, or internal apps can open.
Restrict creative software
Control access to paid editors, design tools, video software, or project apps on shared workstations.
Limit app access on front-desk PCs
Allow required work apps while blocking programs that are unrelated to the role of the computer.
Related App Lock Guides
Password protect an EXE file
For EXE-specific instructions, see how to password protect an EXE file on Windows.
EXE Lock product overview
View the full feature page for GiliSoft EXE Lock.
Lock files and folders
If the goal is protecting documents instead of apps, see GiliSoft File Lock Pro.
Control websites
If you need browser and website control instead, see GiliSoft WebLock.
Windows 11 Desktop App Lock FAQ
Can I lock desktop apps on Windows 11?
Yes. GiliSoft EXE Lock can lock selected desktop apps and executable targets on Windows 11.
Can I require a password before an app opens?
Yes. Use Password Verification when approved users should be able to launch the app after entering the password.
Can I completely block an app from running?
Yes. Use Direct Block when the selected app should be prevented from starting.
Can I see when someone tried to open a locked app?
Yes. The dashboard and logs help show blocked attempts and recent intercept records.
Lock selected Windows 11 desktop apps before they launch
Use GiliSoft EXE Lock to apply password verification, direct block rules, whitelist control, and recent intercept logs for protected desktop apps.
Buy EXE Lock