How to disable the Windows Key at logon

By | 2007-07-20

The problem: There is a bug in Windows 95 that lets the user run Task Manager before logging on to Windows, by pressing the Windows key or Ctrl+Esc while the logon prompt of Windows is displayed on the screen. This can be a problem since Task Manager can further be used to run programs (including Explorer) before logging on to Windows. Note that this problem does not occur in Windows 98. The following methods may be used to fix this problem:

  • Method 1.
    The executable file for Task Manager is TaskMan.exe, it is installed by default in the C:\Windows folder. Rename this file to TM.exe (or to some other name), or move it into some other folder, or simply delete it if you are not going to use it.
  • Method 2.
    Add the following line to the [boot] section of the System.ini file (You can edit the file with Notepad; the file is usually located in the C:\Windows folder): taskman.exe=*

From now on, Task Manager will not be accessible by pressing the Windows or Ctrl+Ecs keys during logon.

Author: dwirch

Derek Wirch is a seasoned IT professional with an impressive career dating back to 1986. He brings a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience that is invaluable to those embarking on their journey in the tech industry.

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