How to Show Only Specified Control Panel Items in Windows 10
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to show only specified Control Panel items using the Local Group Policy Editor.
Why use the Local Group Policy Editor ?
The Local Group Policy Editor is a powerful tool for managing system settings and user configurations. It allows administrators to enforce policies and restrictions without needing to dive into the Registry or install third-party software. By using this tool, you can:
Restrict access: Limit users to only necessary Control Panel items.
Simplify navigation: Make it easier for users to find and use specific settings.
Enhance security: Prevent access to certain settings that might be mis-configured.
Steps to Show Only Specified Control Panel Items
1. Open the Local Group Policy Editor
Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
Type gpedit.msc and press Enter. This will open the Local Group Policy Editor.
2. Navigate to Control Panel Settings
In the Group Policy Editor, expand the following folders:
User Configuration
Administrative Templates
Control Panel
You should see several policies related to the Control Panel. Look for Show Only Specified Control Panel Items.
3. Configure the Policy
Double-click on Show Only Specified Control Panel Items to open its properties.
In the properties window, select Enabled to activate this policy.
Once enabled, click the Show button in the Options section. This will open the Show Contents window.
4. Specify Control Panel Items
In the Show Contents window, you need to specify which Control Panel items should be visible.
Click Add to enter the names of the Control Panel items you want to show. You need to enter the exact names for these items. For example:
Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\Network and Sharing Center
Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\System You can find these names by:
Opening Control Panel and right-clicking on an item to select Properties.
Looking at the URL in the address bar for its canonical name. After adding the desired items, click OK to close the Show Contents window.
5. Apply the Policy
Click Apply in the Show Only Specified Control Panel Items properties window.
Click OK to close the window. https://youtu.be/vP9yIUBJkhs
6. Refresh Group Policy Settings
To apply the changes immediately:
Press Win + R, type gpupdate /force, and press Enter. This command refreshes the group policy settings.
Alternatively, you can restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Verifying Your Changes
To verify that the policy has been applied correctly:
Open the Control Panel. You should now only see the items you specified.
Attempt to access other Control Panel items to ensure they are hidden as expected.
Troubleshooting
If you don’t see the changes:
Check Policy Application: Ensure that the policy was correctly enabled and applied.
Verify Canonical Names: Double-check the names of the Control Panel items you entered.
Permissions: Ensure you have administrative rights to modify Group Policy settings.
Conclusion
Using the Local Group Policy Editor to show specified Control Panel items in Windows 10 is a straightforward way to customize your user experience. Whether for business, educational, or personal use, this method allows you to streamline access to settings and improve system management. Always remember to back up your system or relevant settings before making changes to ensure you can restore them if needed.
