Safe window devices for children.
Safe window devices for children.
We need 12 computers with restricted access. The goal is to prevent changes, delete desktop icons, uninstall apps, and block access to settings. Only installed games should be usable. This requires setting up a controlled environment where system modifications are disabled.
We manage roughly 250 devices inside the facility through a domain. They don’t even have access to the physical controls. This approach requires significant effort and doesn’t justify the cost for just 12 PCs. I believe there’s potential for better protection using built-in application features and window management tools.
Haven't been able to find anything, there's an old app which ran on top of the UI as a replacement which limited what they could do, it has not been updated for years. Another one is a paid version but for pre-school children. The machines are often messed up because they click buttons without knowing what they're doing. Suddenly icons are missing from the desktop, fonts are changes. Yes you can create a guest account, but guest accounts can still do many of the things that i do not want them to be able to do.
Discovered another Reboot Restore Rx with a free option. The main drawback could be the need to disable it for updates, which happens monthly or less frequently—still a minor inconvenience. The premium version is also more affordable than DeepFreeze.
To preserve Windows involves some ongoing effort. I’ve experienced frozen systems before and used software that can halt the machine. To achieve this, you must navigate through games, settings, and applications, turning off automatic updates as much as possible. Doing so too quickly can cause performance drops or reset issues, leading to a slow or broken system. You’ll need to schedule these adjustments regularly.
A quieter alternative is activating Kiosk mode and using a menu app that supports additional software. I’ve considered this for some machines but haven’t had much time to explore it. Searching online for “Kiosk mode Autorun menu” might help you find simpler ways to maintain the system.
Another idea is teaching children about computers and setting clear guidelines. Involve tech-savvy kids in explaining what computers can do, how to use them properly, and reward them with certificates or recognition. This can encourage responsible usage.
If supervision isn’t feasible, assign a trusted adult to monitor usage closely and intervene when necessary. Setting a password for access or using a screen lock after a short period can also help maintain control.
If you keep the setup simple and don’t modify much, you can install the devices as intended and generate a restore image. Tools like Macrium Reflect are available online. For pre-built systems with embedded Windows keys, you might just boot one machine, make a backup on an external drive, and restore when needed. You could also hide partitions by removing their letters in Windows. Alternatively, consider using an MDM solution to handle management, though it may be costly. This approach requires advanced technical knowledge.