How to Remove a Kiosk from Windows 11
Removing a kiosk from Windows 11 involves turning off its assigned access and deleting its specific account.
Windows kiosk mode locks a computer down to just one app, which is handy for things like public computers or signs that only need to show one thing. Windows 11 has a feature called ‘Assigned Access’ to set this up.
You might need to remove a kiosk if you set one up before, especially on Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, and now want your PC to work like a regular computer again.
Disable the assigned access feature via Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Set up a kiosk, then click Remove kiosk. Alternatively, use PowerShell commands Get-AssignedAccess and Remove-AssignedAccess.
Understanding Kiosk Modes
Windows 11 supports two main kiosk setups: Single-app and Multi-app. A single-app kiosk restricts users to just one application. In contrast, a multi-app kiosk allows access to a limited selection of apps. Both configurations use Assigned Access to manage permissions. Keep in mind that administrative rights are required for removal.
Warning: Data Loss
How to Remove a Kiosk via Settings
Kiosks can be removed from Windows 11 using the Settings app, provided you have administrator rights. First, open Settings by pressing the Windows key and I together, or by clicking Start and then choosing Settings. Navigate to Accounts, then select Family & other users. Find the section labeled ‘Set up a kiosk’ and click its ‘Active’ tile to reveal options for removal.
1. Open Settings by pressing the Windows key + I, or by clicking Start and then choosing Settings.
2. In the Settings window, click on Accounts. Then, select Family & other users.
3. Find the section labeled ‘Set up a kiosk’ and click the ‘Active’ tile for more options.
The app currently set to run in kiosk mode will be displayed. Click its name to expand its menu and find options for changing its kiosk status.
5. Click the Remove kiosk button.
6. A confirmation window will appear. Click Remove to complete the deletion process.
Removing Kiosk via PowerShell
If the Settings app does not open on Windows 11, PowerShell offers an alternative. This method also requires administrator privileges to execute the necessary commands.
- Right-click the Start button and select Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
- Type the following command to list current kiosk configurations:
Get-AssignedAccess
3. To remove the configuration, run this command:
Remove-AssignedAccess
Troubleshooting Locked-out Scenarios
If you find yourself locked out of your Windows 11 kiosk and the keyboard is unresponsive, try pressing Ctrl+Alt+Del. This should bring up the sign-in screen.
Summary
Kiosks can be removed from Windows 11 using either the Settings menu or PowerShell, which will lift restrictions and restore normal computer functionality.
Why is the ‘Remove Kiosk’ button missing in Settings?
The ‘Remove Kiosk’ button might be missing in Windows 11 Settings if you’re not an administrator, or if the kiosk was set up using Group Policy or MDM.
Can I remove a Kiosk account remotely?
Yes, if the device is managed by an MDM solution like Microsoft Intune, you can remove the kiosk profile remotely by updating the configuration policy. For standalone computers, you would need remote access software to run PowerShell commands as an administrator to delete the assigned access profile.
Does deleting a Kiosk account delete the user profile data?
Yes, deleting the kiosk account through the Windows settings or via PowerShell will remove the user profile and all associated local data. Always back up any necessary files stored within that specific user account folder before you proceed with the deletion process to avoid permanent data loss.
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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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