Stop an user from installing programs

[SmokeDragoon]

I was wondering how would I go about setting up a windows 7 user account so that it will not be allowed to download or install anything on the computer?

[+Anarkii Subscriber²]

Did you search google?

[sialivi]

Microsoft's own Windows SteadyState might do the trick. This was actually supposed to be built in to Windows 7's user accounts but I believe the feature was dropped, but I'm guessing the Vista version works with 7.

Update: Sorry, I was wrong. Turns out SteadyState is not compatible with Windows 7.

Deep Freeze is another piece of software I've heard mentioned on the Security Now podcast and it is Windows 7 compatible. It's not free though.

Edited November 22, 2009 by sialivi

[Buzz99]

Deep Freeze will let install programs but will return in the state it was before on the next reboot. Assign a password to the administrateor account and give the user limited rights (user or guest ) should restrict the installation of software.

[Anibal P]

Just make the user account Limited? That usually blocks installation of software, but not sure if it's for all or just some

[SmokeDragoon]

thats the problem im having.. i made a limited account already but for some reason programs can still be installed..