Hello,

In an effort to lock down Windows 8.1 for a tablet deployment, I'd like to prevent users from accessing the search application either through the metro interface or the charms bar.  Right now I have the machine fairly locked down where they can't access a number of areas within the OS, however users can still pull up the search application and launch a program if they know the name of it.

For example I don't want users to be able to open up a powershell prompt, which they can't do by normal means. However, if they search for "powershell" it comes up and they can launch it.

Is there a way to completely disable search or at the very least hide it so that it cannot be accessed?  I'd prefer to set via group policy but I have not seen any direct policies to control this feature.

Thanks.

-Bryan

Hi Bryan,

There is no way to disable the search function completely. If you don't want user use any program, I would like to suggest you use AppLocker feature to prevent user accessing it.

The detailed steps, please follow this guide to know well it:

AppLocker Overview

https://technet.microsoft.com/en-in/library/hh831409.aspx

Hi Karen,

Thanks for the info.  While not perfect, testing with AppLocker has gotten me farther along than without.