How to Lock Apps in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 1, 2025

Have you ever wished you could lock certain apps on your Windows 11 PC? Maybe you want to stop kids from opening games, keep sensitive apps like banking tools private, or prevent others from snooping around. Unfortunately, Windows 11 doesn’t come with a built-in app lock like smartphones, but don’t worry—there are several effective ways to secure your apps.

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through different methods to lock apps in Windows 11, ranging from built-in tools to third-party software.

Why Lock Apps in Windows 11?

App locking isn’t just about privacy—it’s also about control. Here’s why you might need it:

  • Protect privacy – Keep messaging, email, or banking apps secure.
  • Parental control – Stop kids from opening games, social media, or unwanted apps.
  • Work productivity – Block distracting apps while working.
  • Shared PCs – If you share your computer, app locks give you peace of mind.

Think of it like locking a drawer—you decide who gets access.

Step 1: Use Windows 11 Built-In Family Safety (For Kids’ Accounts)

If you want to restrict apps for children, Microsoft Family Safety is a great built-in option.

  1. Open Settings → go to Accounts.
  2. Click Family & other users.
  3. Add a Family Member Account.
  4. Set up a Child Account and link it to your Microsoft Family group.
  5. Use Microsoft Family Safety (online or app) to control app usage.

👉 You can block specific apps or set time limits.

Step 2: Use Group Policy Editor (Pro & Enterprise Versions)

If you’re using Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, you can lock apps using Group Policy Editor.

  1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to: User Configuration → Administrative Templates → System
  3. Find “Don’t run specified Windows applications.”
  4. Double-click it, select Enabled, then click Show.
  5. Add the names of the apps you want to block (e.g., notepad.exe, chrome.exe).
  6. Apply changes and restart your PC.

Now, those apps won’t run at all for that user.

Step 3: Use Registry Editor (All Versions)

If you don’t have Group Policy Editor (like in Windows 11 Home), you can use the Registry Editor.

⚠️ Be careful—editing the registry incorrectly can cause issues.

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
  2. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
  3. Right-click → New → DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it: DisallowRun
  4. Set its value to 1.
  5. Create a new subkey called DisallowRun.
  6. Inside it, create String Values with app names (like 1 = chrome.exe, 2 = notepad.exe).

Restart your PC, and those apps will be blocked.

Step 4: Use Third-Party App Lockers

If you want password protection (like on phones), third-party apps are the best option. Some popular choices:

  • My Lockbox – Password-protect apps and folders.
  • Folder Guard – Lock apps, folders, and files.
  • Smart-X AppLocker – Lightweight and free tool for app restrictions.

How to use My Lockbox:

  1. Download and install My Lockbox.
  2. Set a password during setup.
  3. Add the apps you want to lock.
  4. Once locked, the app won’t open without your password.

Step 5: Use Windows AppLocker (Enterprise Feature)

For advanced users, AppLocker in Windows 11 Enterprise lets you control which apps can run.

  1. Open Local Security Policy (search in Start menu).
  2. Go to: Application Control Policies → AppLocker
  3. Right-click Executable Rules → Create New Rule.
  4. Choose which apps to allow or deny.
  5. Apply changes.

This is great for IT admins managing multiple PCs.

Step 6: Lock Apps with Parental Control Apps

If built-in tools feel limited, you can use parental control apps like:

  • Cold Turkey – Block distracting apps.
  • Qustodio – Full parental control solution.
  • Net Nanny – Blocks apps and websites.

These give you advanced features like scheduling and monitoring.

Step 7: Password-Protect Apps Using Folder Encryption

Another workaround is to move app files into a password-protected folder.

  1. Use a tool like WinRAR or 7-Zip.
  2. Create a compressed folder with a password.
  3. Place the app’s shortcut or files inside.

Without the password, no one can access the app.

Best Practices for Locking Apps in Windows 11

  • Always use strong passwords (mix letters, numbers, symbols).
  • For kids, prefer Microsoft Family Safety over manual methods.
  • If you’re an advanced user, Group Policy or AppLocker gives you more control.
  • Regularly check which apps are restricted to avoid locking yourself out.

Conclusion

While Windows 11 doesn’t have a direct “App Lock” feature like mobile devices, you can still lock apps effectively using built-in settings, registry tweaks, or third-party software.

For everyday users, third-party tools like My Lockbox are the easiest. For parents, Microsoft Family Safety is perfect. And for IT pros, Group Policy or AppLocker provides enterprise-level control.

No matter which method you choose, locking apps in Windows 11 ensures your privacy, security, and productivity remain in your control.

FAQs

1. Does Windows 11 have a built-in app lock feature like Android or iOS?
No, but you can use Family Safety, Group Policy, or third-party tools.

2. Can I lock apps with a password in Windows 11?
Yes, with third-party tools like My Lockbox or Folder Guard.

3. How do I prevent kids from opening apps in Windows 11?
Use Microsoft Family Safety to block or limit apps.

4. Will locking apps affect system performance?
No, unless you use heavy parental control software.

5. Can I unlock apps later if I change my mind?
Yes, just remove them from the block list or disable the app lock software.

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