How to Modify XP Group Policy on a Single Machine

Only professional editions of Windows XP contain the group policy editor.

Windows XP contains group policy, a feature that lets system administrators define settings and policies for Windows. Various advanced settings and system lock-down features are only accessible through the group policy editor. Network administrators often define group policy on a centralized server, but you can also edit the group policy on a single, stand-alone computer. You can modify settings that apply to the computer alone or to any computer its users log on to. You can't modify group policy on a Windows XP Home edition computer.

Instructions

1. Click "Start" and click "Run."

2. Type "Gpedit.msc" into the Run dialog window and press "Enter."

3. Click the plus sign to the left of "Computer Configuration" under "Local Computer Policy" in the left pane of the group policy editor window.

4. Navigate to the group policy setting you want to modify bt double-clicking the folders in the right pane.

5. Double-click the group policy setting you want to modify.

6. Adjust the options for the group policy setting in the properties window that appears. You can enable or disable a group policy setting and configure advanced options specific to each group policy setting.

7. Click "OK."

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when modifying group policy. The group policy editor contains a variety of settings intended for experienced system administrators.

References

• Microsoft: How To Use the Group Policy Editor to Manage Local Computer Policy in Windows XP