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by 3eb7988a1663 242 days ago
Nuts. Is this still true? I just setup a Win11 Pro machine for a very non-technical person. Uninstalled OneDrive, hoping to minimize future pain when 90% of the needs are just a web browser and storing camera pictures.

(No, Linux was not an option)

3 comments

I have absolutely seen them reinstall components like that, force their AV back on, force Windows Update back on, etc. It's probably actually good imo for the users I've seen, but admittedly "computer says no" is infuriating if you're sure of what you want.

Try using Group Policy to disable it. I think Applocker is on Win 11 Pro now - if it is, you can block the execution of whatever programs and DLLs you want. I've used that to block Windows Update.

Not just in Win11, AppLocker can be used in Win10 too.

AppLocker is included with all editions of Windows except Windows 10 version 1809 or earlier.

Applocker can help prevent users from running unwanted software (including DLLs and scripts).

However, AppLocker requires Local Security Policy, which isn't available in Home edition of Windows, but it can be installed easily for free.

https://www.thewindowsclub.com/local-security-policy-missing...

Here's how to use AppLocker to block an unwanted app:

https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/124008-use-applocker-all...

Well, I will at least throw in the Group Policy tweak when I have the chance. Thanks for the tip.
There is almost certainly a registry key you can set as well. 5 ways to do something, none documented officially.
Yeah for myself Pro licensing and domain is the way to go so I can configure Windows similar to my work network at home. But for people who have Home licenses I just set the registry keys. Windows Home doesn't have a UI to set policy, but it does obey it if the keys are there.

(This is a must-have to turn off web browser antifeatures as well, you can't block extension install from the browser settings for any browser but you can by policy.)

OneDrive has yet to reappear on my Windows machines, but I mostly only use 10 still, 11 could be that shitty
> Nuts. Is this still true?

Yes. Microsoft wants to protect you. /s