How to View the Highest Level Group Policy

The highest level node in the Group Policy Editor utility is divided in two main categories that are specific to computer configuration and user configuration. Both are comprised of sub-folders that correspond to Windows settings, software settings and administrative templates. The snap-in values or settings listed within the computer configuration affect the local workstation. The settings listed within the user configuration affect the current user for which the policies are enforced. Viewing these highest level nodes can be quickly done by launching the Group Policy Editor utility.

Instructions

1. Click "Start," type "gpedit.msc" in the "Start Search" text field and press "Enter." The Group Policy Editor utility will open.

2. Collapse the "Computer Configuration" node, if expanded, by clicking the corresponding "-" sign on the left pane's tree-directory.

3. Collapse the "User Configuration" node, if expanded, by clicking the corresponding "-" sign.

   These two nodes are the highest levels in Group Policy.

References

• Microsoft Support: How to Use the Group Policy Editor to Manage Local Computer Policy
• Technet Microsoft: Group Policy Overview