1. Open GiliSoft EXE Lock
Install and open EXE Lock on the Windows PC where other users need limited access to installed software.
Control Program Access on a Shared Windows PC
Separate Windows accounts can help organize personal settings, but many shared computers still expose installed applications to everyone who can sign in. Removing shortcuts or hiding an app does not prevent a user from opening it through Windows Search, the Start menu, a file association, or the installation folder.
GiliSoft EXE Lock applies access control at program launch. Add the desktop EXE or supported Microsoft Store app, then use Direct Block for prohibited software or Password Verification when a parent, supervisor, or administrator should still be able to approve access.
Practical choice: use GiliSoft EXE Lock when approved programs should remain available but selected users must be kept out of sensitive or distracting applications.
How to Prevent Users from Opening a Program
2. Choose the app type
Open Desktop Apps (EXE) for traditional Windows software or Store Apps (UWP) for supported Microsoft Store applications.
3. Add the protected program
Select Add or drag the target into the list, then verify the program name, executable path, or Store app identifier.
4. Choose the access rule
Use Direct Block when ordinary users should receive no access, or Password Verification when an authorized person may approve launch.
5. Protect the EXE Lock settings
Set the startup and release password, add a recovery email, and keep trusted or system-critical apps in the whitelist.
6. Review user attempts
Use the dashboard and logs to confirm protection status and review recent blocked launch attempts.
Programs That Often Need Restricted Access
Finance and business applications
Require approval before users open accounting, payroll, inventory, CRM, reporting, or other software that exposes sensitive company data.
Administrative and support tools
Keep remote-access programs, system utilities, uninstallers, maintenance tools, and configuration software away from casual users.
Games, launchers, and entertainment apps
Prevent games, media players, chat clients, and entertainment software from interrupting work, lessons, training, or homework.
Licensed creative and production software
Control access to paid editing, design, engineering, development, and publishing applications installed on shared workstations.
Keep Authorized Access Without Leaving Programs Open
Direct Block for ordinary users
The protected program cannot start, making this suitable for prohibited apps on shared, public, classroom, or work computers.
Password Verification for supervisors
A parent, manager, teacher, or administrator can enter the password when legitimate access is required.
Temporary Unlock for maintenance
Release protected apps briefly during software updates, support sessions, demonstrations, or supervised work.
Whitelist for trusted applications
Keep approved and system-protected programs outside the lock list so normal Windows operation remains clear and predictable.
Common User Access Scenarios
Different employees share one workstation
Leave the required work apps available while protecting finance, management, support, or licensed tools from unauthorized staff.
Children use a family computer
Restrict games, chat clients, browsers, and media apps while parents retain password-controlled access when appropriate.
Students use school or lab PCs
Keep classroom computers focused on approved learning software without removing other applications needed by teachers or administrators.
Visitors use a public-facing PC
Protect utilities and internal programs while leaving the required kiosk, reception, service, or presentation software available.
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.
Block programs from running
For a broader launch-control guide, see how to block programs from running on Windows.
Block games on a shared PC
For home, school, and office gaming restrictions, see how to block games on a Windows PC.
Restrict Program Access on Windows FAQ
Can I prevent other users from opening a program without uninstalling it?
Yes. EXE Lock leaves the program installed but intercepts its launch according to the selected access rule.
Can an administrator still open a restricted application?
Yes. Use Password Verification or Temporary Unlock when an authorized person needs to run the protected software.
Does it work with Microsoft Store apps?
EXE Lock includes a Store Apps (UWP) area for supported Microsoft Store targets as well as a Desktop Apps list for traditional EXE programs.
Can I review who tried to open a program?
The dashboard and logs record blocked attempts and recent intercept activity, helping administrators confirm that the policy is working.
Keep selected Windows programs available only to authorized users
Use GiliSoft EXE Lock to combine direct blocking, password approval, temporary unlock, app whitelists, and launch attempt records.
Buy EXE Lock