How to configure Kiosk Mode (Assigned Access) is one of those tasks that sounds incredibly technical, but once you get under the hood of Windows 11, it’s actually quite straightforward. Whether you are a small business owner wanting to turn a tablet into a digital menu, or an IT manager setting up a public library computer, Windows 11 has made this process much smoother than its predecessors.
In this guide, we will walk through everything you need to know to get your Kiosk up and running. We’ll keep it simple, skip the heavy jargon, and ensure your device is locked down exactly how you need it.
What Exactly is Kiosk Mode?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “what.” In the world of Windows, Kiosk Mode is officially known as Assigned Access.
Think of it as a digital straitjacket for a computer. It allows you to restrict a specific user account so that it can only run one single app. When that user logs in, the app starts automatically in full-screen mode, and they can’t alt-tab out of it, access the desktop, or mess with your system settings. It’s perfect for:
- Self-service check-in stations
- Digital signage
- Point-of-Sale (POS) systems
- Public web browsing terminals
Prerequisites Before You Start
There are a few things you need to have ready before you begin the setup:
- Windows Edition: You need Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education. Unfortunately, the “Home” edition does not support Assigned Access.
- The App: The app you want to use must be a Universal Windows Platform (UWP) app (like Microsoft Edge, Calculator, or Mail) or a supported web app.
- Administrative Rights: You must be logged into an account with Administrator privileges to configure these settings.
Step-by-Step Guide: Configuring Kiosk Mode
1. Open the Settings Menu
Everything starts in the main Settings app. You can get there by pressing Windows Key + I on your keyboard or clicking the gear icon in the Start menu.
2. Navigate to Accounts
On the left-hand sidebar, click on Accounts. Scroll down the right-hand pane until you see an option labeled Other users. This is where Windows hides the Kiosk settings.
3. Set Up a Kiosk
Under the “Other users” section, you will see a sub-heading called Set up a kiosk. Click the button that says Get started.
4. Name Your Kiosk Account
A pop-up window will appear asking you to create a name for the new account. You can call it something simple like “Guest,” “Customer,” or “Kiosk.” This is a local account that Windows creates specifically for this purpose.
5. Choose Your App
Now comes the important part: selecting the application. Windows will provide a list of compatible apps.
- Microsoft Edge: This is the most common choice. It allows you to set up a browser-based kiosk.
- Specific Store Apps: If you have a custom-built app for your business, it should appear here as long as it’s a UWP app.
6. Configure the App Experience (If using Edge)
If you chose Microsoft Edge, Windows will ask how you want the browser to behave:
- As a digital sign or interactive display: This displays a specific website in full-screen mode.
- As a public browser: This allows users to browse the web but restricts certain features and clears data after each session.
Enter the URL of the website you want to display and set the restart timer (how long the browser waits before resetting if no one touches it).
7. Finish and Test
Click Next and then Close. You’ve officially configured Kiosk Mode!
To see it in action, press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and sign out of your current account. On the login screen, you will now see your “Kiosk” account in the bottom-left corner. Click it, and the system will boot directly into your chosen app.
How to Exit Kiosk Mode
If you are testing this out, you might find yourself “stuck” in the kiosk app—which means it’s working! To get back to your admin account:
- Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete.
- Select Sign out or Switch user.
- Log back into your primary administrator account.
Why Use Windows 11 for Kiosks?
Windows 11 brought a much-needed visual refresh to the Kiosk experience. The animations are smoother, and the “Assigned Access” feature is more stable than it was in Windows 10. Additionally, the security updates in Windows 11 (like the requirement for TPM 2.0) make these public-facing terminals much harder to hack or compromise.
If you are running a business, using the built-in Kiosk Mode is much safer than just leaving a standard guest account open. It prevents users from downloading malicious software, changing wallpaper, or accessing private files on the hard drive.
Pro Tips for a Better Kiosk Experience
- Keyboard Layouts: Ensure the keyboard is set to the correct language before locking the device down.
- Power Settings: Go to Power & Battery settings and ensure the screen is set to “Never” sleep if it’s a display kiosk. You don’t want your digital sign going black in the middle of the day.
- Updates: Remember that Windows will still try to update. It’s best to schedule active hours so the kiosk doesn’t restart for updates while a customer is using it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The app I want isn’t on the list.
As mentioned earlier, Windows 11 Kiosk mode generally only supports UWP apps. If you have a traditional desktop app (.exe), you may need to use more advanced tools like the Windows kiosk wizard in the Microsoft PowerToys or use “Shell Launcher” via the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK).
The Kiosk account isn’t appearing on the login screen.
Make sure you finished the setup process entirely. Sometimes a quick restart is required for the new local user account to be recognized by the Windows login manager.
Summary Table
| Feature | Kiosk Mode (Assigned Access) |
| Windows Version | Pro, Enterprise, Education |
| Setup Location | Settings > Accounts > Other Users |
| App Type | UWP (Store) apps or Edge |
| Exit Method | Ctrl + Alt + Delete |
Setting up a locked-down environment doesn’t have to be a headache. By following these steps, you can turn any compatible PC into a secure, single-purpose tool in under ten minutes.