How to Disable Snipping Tool in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

The Snipping Tool in Windows 11 is a handy built-in app for taking screenshots. But for some users—especially in schools, workplaces, or shared PCs—it’s important to disable the Snipping Tool to prevent unwanted screenshots, protect sensitive information, or enforce organizational policies.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you multiple ways to disable the Snipping Tool in Windows 11, including Group Policy Editor, Registry Editor, PowerShell, and third-party methods.

Why Disable the Snipping Tool in Windows 11?

Some reasons why you may want to disable the Snipping Tool:

• Prevent data leaks: Stop users from capturing sensitive company documents.

• Control productivity: Limit distractions in classrooms or workplaces.

• Policy enforcement: Required in organizations where screenshot tools are restricted.

• Alternative tools available: You may prefer third-party screenshot apps with more features.

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Can You Permanently Remove the Snipping Tool?

• The Snipping Tool is a system app in Windows 11.

• You can disable or uninstall it, but it may reappear after updates.

• Best practice: Use Group Policy or Registry Editor for permanent blocking.

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Method 1: Disable Snipping Tool via Group Policy Editor

This is the most effective method for Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.

Steps:

1. Press Win + R, type:

   gpedit.msc


   and press Enter.

2. Navigate to:

   User Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Tablet PC → Accessories


3. Double-click Do not allow Snipping Tool to run.

4. Select Enabled → Click Apply → OK.

👉 The Snipping Tool will now be disabled.

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Method 2: Disable Snipping Tool Using Registry Editor

If you’re on Windows 11 Home, Group Policy isn’t available. Instead, use Registry Editor.

Steps:

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.

2. Navigate to:

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft


3. Right-click Microsoft → New → Key → name it:

   TabletPC


4. Inside TabletPC, right-click → New → DWORD (32-bit) Value.

5. Name it:

   DisableSnippingTool


6. Double-click it and set Value data = 1.

7. Restart your PC.

👉 The Snipping Tool is now disabled.

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Method 3: Disable Snipping Tool with PowerShell Command

For a quick disable method, use PowerShell:

1. Right-click Start → select Windows Terminal (Admin).

2. Enter this command:

   Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.ScreenSketch* | Remove-AppxPackage


3. Press Enter.

👉 This uninstalls the Snipping Tool app.

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Method 4: Uninstall Snipping Tool from Windows Settings

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.

2. Go to Apps → Installed apps.

3. Search for Snipping Tool.

4. Click the three dots (…) → Uninstall.

⚠️ Note: Some Windows builds may only allow disabling, not full uninstall.

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Method 5: Block Snipping Tool via AppLocker (For IT Admins)

If you manage multiple PCs in an organization:

1. Open Local Security Policy (search in Start).

2. Go to Application Control Policies → AppLocker.

3. Create a new executable rule to block SnippingTool.exe.

4. Apply the rule and refresh policy.

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Method 6: Rename or Restrict SnippingTool.exe Manually

A manual workaround is to restrict execution of the Snipping Tool.

1. Navigate to:

   C:\Windows\System32\


2. Locate SnippingTool.exe.

3. Right-click → Properties → Security tab.

4. Remove permissions for standard users.

👉 This prevents the app from running.

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How to Re-Enable Snipping Tool in Windows 11

• If disabled via Group Policy → set policy to Not Configured.

• If disabled via Registry → delete DisableSnippingTool key.

• If uninstalled → reinstall from Microsoft Store.

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Troubleshooting: Snipping Tool Still Running After Disable

• Ensure you restarted after changes.

• Check for pending Windows updates that may have reinstalled it.

• Confirm you applied changes for the correct user account.

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Alternatives to Snipping Tool (If You Disable It)

If you still need screenshots but don’t want Snipping Tool:

• Greenshot – Free, lightweight tool.

• ShareX – Advanced open-source screenshot tool.

• Lightshot – Simple, quick sharing.

• Built-in Print Screen (PrtScn) – Basic screenshot capture.

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Best Practices for Controlling Screenshot Tools

• In organizations: Use Group Policy or AppLocker.

• At home: Use Registry or PowerShell for quick disable.

• For sensitive environments: Combine with DLP (Data Loss Prevention) tools.

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Conclusion

Disabling the Snipping Tool in Windows 11 is easy and can be done in multiple ways. Whether you use Group Policy, Registry Editor, PowerShell, or AppLocker, you have full control over whether this screenshot tool is available on your PC.

👉 For personal use, Registry Editor is enough.
👉 For enterprises, Group Policy and AppLocker are the best solutions.

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Key Takeaways

• Snipping Tool can be disabled or uninstalled in Windows 11.

• Group Policy (Pro editions) and Registry Editor (Home edition) are the most reliable methods.

• PowerShell and Settings can also remove or disable it.

• Always restart after making changes.

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FAQs

1. Can I completely remove Snipping Tool from Windows 11?

Yes, using PowerShell or the Settings app, but it may return after updates.

2. Is it safe to disable Snipping Tool?

Yes, it won’t affect Windows performance — it just blocks screenshot functionality.

3. Why is Snipping Tool still working after I disabled it?

You may need to restart your PC or re-check your Registry/Group Policy changes.

4. Can I disable Snipping Tool only for specific users?

Yes, using Group Policy or AppLocker in Pro/Enterprise editions.

5. What’s the easiest way to disable Snipping Tool in Windows 11 Home?

Use Registry Editor and set DisableSnippingTool = 1.