Windows 7: Desktop Icons - Enable or Disable Changing

   Information

This will allow you to add or remove the Change desktop icons link in Personalization to enable or disable all users on the computer from being able to open Desktop Icon Settings to change the default desktop icons.

You must be logged in as an administrator to be able to do this tutorial.

OPTION ONE

Using a REG File Download

1. To Enable Changing Default Desktop Icons

A) Click on the Download button below to download the file below, and go to step 3 below.

Enable_Changing_Desktop_Icons.reg

2. To Disable Changing Default Desktop Icons

A) Click on the Download button below to download the file below, and go to step 3 below.

Disable_Changing_Desktop_Icons.reg

3. Save the .reg file to the desktop.

4. Right click the downloaded .reg file on the Desktop and click on Merge.

5. Click on Run, Yes (UAC), Yes, and OK when prompted.

6. Log off and log on, or restart the computer to apply.

7. When done, you can delete the downloaded .reg file if you like.

OPTION TWO

Through the Local Group Policy Editor

1. Open the all users, specific users or groups, or all users except administrators Local Group Policy Editor for how you want this policy applied.

2. In the left pane, click on to expand User Configuration, Administrative Templates, Control Panel, and Personalization. (see screenshot below)

3. In the right pane, right click on Prevent changing desktop icons and click on Edit. (see screenshot above)

4. To Enable Changing Default Desktop Icons

A) Select (dot) either Not Configured or Disabled. (see screenshot below step 6)

B) Go to step 6.

5. To Disable Changing Default Desktop Icons

A) Select (dot) Enabled. (see screenshot below step 6)

6. Click on OK. (see screenshot below)

7. Close the Local Group Policy Editor window.