Apply Local Group Policy to Specific Users - A How-To Guide
Managing User-Specific Policies with the Local Group Policy Editor
For those utilizing Windows Pro or Enterprise versions (including the Ultimate editions of Windows Vista and 7), the Local Group Policy Editor provides access to a suite of powerful features for controlling PC behavior. However, applying policy settings to individual users, rather than the entire system, necessitates additional configuration.
Understanding Policy Configuration
The Local Group Policy Editor categorizes settings into two distinct areas: Computer Configuration, which governs policies irrespective of the logged-in user, and User Configuration, which applies policies to specific users. Directly launching the tool doesn't offer a method for user-specific application.
Instead, the Microsoft Management Console framework must be initiated, with the editor added as a snap-in, and subsequently configured for the intended users.
Launching the Microsoft Management Console
To begin, open a blank Microsoft Management Console instance. Type "mmc.exe" into the Start menu or the Run command and execute the selection.
A User Account Control prompt may appear; confirm by clicking "Yes".
Adding the Group Policy Snap-in
Next, integrate the group policy snap-in into the management console. Within the console window, navigate to the File menu and select "Add/Remove Snap-in."
On the left-hand side of the snap-ins window, choose "Group Policy Object Editor" and then click the "Add" button.
Selecting the Target Policy Object
A new window will appear, prompting you to select a specific policy object – in this case, the user or group you intend to manage. Click the "Browse" button within this window.
Switch to the "Users" tab, select the desired user (or user group) to which the policies will be applied, and then click "OK". This example demonstrates configuration for non-administrator accounts, but you can create separate consoles for administrator accounts or individual users as needed.
Completing the Snap-in Addition
Return to the "Select Group Policy Object" window and click "Finish".
Finally, within the snap-ins window, click "OK".
Saving the Policy Console
The main console window will now display the newly added policy snap-in. Select "Save As" from the File menu to save the new policy console.
Choose a descriptive name, incorporating the target users for clarity. For instance, "Group Policy for Non-Administrators" is a suitable option.
Applying User-Specific Policies
With this completed, launching the saved MSC file will open the Group Policy editor, allowing you to configure policies that apply exclusively to the specified group or user.
It's important to note that when configuring policies for specific users in this manner, only the User Configuration settings are accessible within the Group Policy Editor. The Computer Configuration settings remain unavailable. To access those, launch the Group Policy Editor directly.
- Key Takeaway: Utilizing the Microsoft Management Console allows for granular control over policy application.
- Remember: User Configuration settings are the focus when applying policies to specific users.