A practical guide to securing shared devices in retail, hospitality, education, and more.
Windows 11 Kiosk Mode is a powerful feature that allows you to lock down a device to run only a specific, pre-configured application or a controlled set of apps. This is essential for public-facing or single-purpose devices in environments like retail stores, hospitals, and schools. By restricting user access to the operating system, settings, and other apps, kiosk mode prevents misuse and ensures device security.
Understanding the Two Kiosk Mode Types
Windows 11 offers two main types of kiosk mode to suit different use cases:
- Single-App Kiosk Mode: This locks the device to a single application that runs in full-screen mode, preventing the user from exiting the app or accessing any other part of the system. This is ideal for digital signage or a self-service terminal.
- Multi-App Kiosk Mode: This allows you to create a locked-down experience with access to a pre-defined list of applications, while blocking all other system functions. This is perfect for a library computer or a point-of-sale terminal that requires multiple apps.
3 Methods to Set Up Kiosk Mode
Method 1: Using Assigned Access (GUI)
This is the simplest method for setting up kiosk mode on a single device.
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Other users.
- Under “Kiosk mode,” click Get started.
- Name the new kiosk account.
- Select the single app you want to run. Note that the app must be a Universal Windows Platform (UWP) app.
- Configure the behavior, such as automatically restarting the kiosk after a period of inactivity.
Pros: Easy to use, no technical skills required. Cons: Only for single-app mode, and not scalable for managing multiple devices.
Method 2: Using PowerShell
This method offers more control for non-UWP apps, but it is still limited to a single device at a time.
- Open PowerShell as an administrator.
- Create a dedicated kiosk account.
- Use specific PowerShell commands to configure the kiosk profile and assign the chosen application to the account.
Pros: Provides more flexibility for app selection. Cons: Not a user-friendly process and not suitable for large-scale deployment.
Method 3: Using a UEM Solution (Recommended for Scale)
For organizations with multiple devices, a Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution is the most effective and efficient method. It allows you to configure and deploy kiosk mode remotely across your entire device fleet.
- Enroll your Windows 11 devices into a UEM platform like Scalefusion.
- From the central UEM dashboard, create a device profile for your kiosk.
- Select either single-app or multi-app mode.
- Choose the apps you want to run and configure all settings, including web filtering, welcome screens, and branding.
- Apply the profile to your target devices, and the changes will be deployed remotely.
Pros: Centralized management, remote deployment, advanced controls, and scalability. Cons: Requires a dedicated UEM platform.
While Windows 11 offers built-in ways to enable kiosk mode, these manual methods are only practical for a few devices. For any organization looking to manage a fleet of devices securely and efficiently, using a UEM platform is the clear choice. It not only simplifies the setup process but also provides the ongoing management and security capabilities needed to protect your assets and maintain seamless operations.
About Scalefusion
Scalefusion’s company DNA is built on the foundation of providing world-class customer service and making endpoint management simple and effortless for businesses globally. We prioritize the needs and feedback of our customers, making sure that they are at the forefront of all decision-making processes. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive customer support services, and place emphasis on customer-centric thinking throughout the organization.
About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.
Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.