Can You Lock Internet Browser Settings?

Restricting access to Internet browser settings is a common practice of libraries, museums and business to protect themselves from online security threats. Commonly referred to as kiosk mode, it is also implemented to block access to objectionable content.

Background

Browsing in kiosk mode means that the user is limited to basic browsing while menus, toolbars, the status bar and the address bar are eliminated. For some browsers, putting the browser in kiosk mode requires the use of third-party add-ons or external programs.

Internet Explorer

Internet Explorer can be set to kiosk mode by typing the following from the command line:
iexplore.exe -k
There are also programs such as KioWare that can provide more powerful lockdown options.

Firefox

Firefox requires add-ons to lock down settings. Open Kiosk, developed by the Brooklyn Museum, is a popular add-on to disable Firefox settings. It is available at https://mozdevgroup.com/clients/bm.

Opera

Opera Software provides detailed information for users to disable Opera settings on the company's website at www.opera.com/support/mastering/kiosk.

Restricting Content

All popular browsers include built-in controls to restrict access to specific websites.

References

• Microsoft Support: Internet Explorer Kiosk Mode
• Mozdevgroup: Open Kiosk for Firefox
• Opera: Kiosk Mode

Resources

• KioWare Website
• Mozilla: Firefox Add-ons