Windows Kiosk App

Question

So, I need to build a kiosk type of application for use in an internet cafe. The app needs to load and display some options of things to do. One option is to launch IE to surf

Answer 1

I recently had to do the same kind of kiosk software as you. I myself am running a C++ software with Qt bu you could do it in C# .Net as well.

You can easily replace the shell using the following registery :

HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\Shell

To avoid login when the computer start you can also set the following fields in Winlogon :

AutoAdminLogon = 1

DefaultUserName = “USERNAME”

DefaultPassword = “PASSWORD”

DefaultDomainName = “ComputerName” : e.g : USERNAME-PC

Be aware that you cannot use this method to start a software as administrator. If that is your purpose I could give you a few tricks in that direction as well.

• Are there any other tasks that I should be aware of when doing this? Other than task manager and replacing the shell.

In windows if you want to create a kiosk you will also need to disable :

1. The Windows + X keys :

a. Type gpedit.msc from cmd prompt or start menu

b. Then go to : User Configuration>Administrative templates>Windows Components>File Explorer

c. In the right panel enable “Turn Off Windows + X hotkeys”

2. Alt+X keys

3. Sticky keys : Disable Sticky Keys

4. Ctrl + Alt + Del :

a. Type gpedit.msc from cmd prompt or start menu

b. Select User

Configuration->Administrative Templates->System->Ctrl-Alt-Del Options

c. Double click on each : Remove Change Password, Remove Lock Computer, Remove Task Manager, and Remove Logoff and select Enabled then OK.

d. Select Computer Configuration->Administrative Templates->System->Logon

e. In the right hand pane, double click on Hide entry points for Fast user Switching f. Select Enabled then OK

This will remove all the nasty items in the ctrl-alt-del screen that can give users access to things you want to protect.

I didn't have to run IE so I cannot give you any details about that.