How to Hide the Account Protection Section in the Windows Security apps on Windows 11
Decluttering the Windows Security app or preventing accidental changes takes a quick tweak.
Open gpedit.msc to access Local Group Policy Editor. Navigate to Computer Configuration Administrative Templates Windows Components Windows Security Account protection, then double-click “Hide the Account protection area” and select “Enabled” to hide it.
Applies to
This guide covers hiding the Account Protection section in Windows Security on Windows 10 and Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.
Why hide the Account Protection section?
The Account Protection section in Windows Security prevents others from altering crucial settings like your Windows Hello sign-in or PC lock settings when you’re away. Hiding it helps safeguard these security options from unintended or unwelcome modifications.
What happens when done: The Account Protection section will disappear from the Windows Security app interface, preventing users from modifying those specific security configurations.
Prerequisites and Limitations
Administrative privileges and a registry backup are required before making any changes. Changes made here are not easily reversible.
Hide or Show Account Protection via Group Policy
You can hide or show the Account Protection section in Windows 11 using the Local Group Policy Editor (a built-in tool for managing system settings). Follow these steps to find and adjust the Account Protection setting.
1. Open the Local Group Policy Editor by clicking the Start menu and searching for gpedit.msc.
2. In the left-hand menu, navigate to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Security > Account protection
3. On the right side, double-click the setting named "Hide the Account protection area."
4. Choose your setting:
- Not Configured: This is the default setting.
- Enabled: This hides the Account protection area.
- Disabled: This shows the Account protection area.
Hide or Show Account Protection via Registry
The Windows Registry (a hierarchical database storing system settings) offers an alternative path if the Group Policy Editor is unavailable. Backing up the registry before proceeding prevents unintended issues.
1. Open the Registry Editor by searching for regedit.exe in the Start menu.
2. Navigate to this path in the Registry Editor:
If the specific folders for configuring Windows Security settings are missing, you can create them. Right-click on the "Windows" folder in the Registry Editor. Then, choose "New" and then "Key" twice to create the "System" and "Defender" keys.
3. Right-click in the empty space on the right. Select New, then DWORD (32-bit) Value.
4. Name this new file UILockdown.
5. Double-click UILockdown and change the Value data. Type 1 into the field to show the section, or 0 to hide it.
- Enter
0to show the section in the Windows Security app. - Enter
1to hide the section.
6. Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Summary
You can hide or show the Account Protection section in Windows 11 using either the Local Group Policy Editor or the Registry Editor. A restart may be necessary for changes to take effect.
Does hiding Account Protection disable security features?
No, hiding the Account Protection section does not disable your security features. It only removes the visual menu from the Windows Security app. Your existing settings for Windows Hello, Dynamic Lock, and account security remain active and fully functional in the background to protect your device.
Can I hide this section on 🪟 Windows 11 Home edition?
Yes, you can hide the section on Windows 11 Home. Since the Local Group Policy Editor is not available in the Home edition, you must use the Registry Editor method. Follow the registry steps carefully, ensuring you create the correct keys and DWORD values as described in this guide.
Is a system restart required after modifying the registry?
Yes, a system restart is generally required after modifying the registry to ensure the changes take effect. While some settings might apply immediately, restarting your computer ensures that the Windows Security app refreshes its configuration and correctly hides or displays the Account Protection section as you intended.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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