How to Remove a Kiosk from Windows 11
Assigned Access in Windows 11 locks a PC down to a single app for public displays, but removing this kiosk setup returns the machine to normal desktop use. Standard Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise editions use this feature to restrict public terminals.
Turning off kiosk mode involves deleting the dedicated user account tied to the restriction and changing the system settings back to normal. You need administrator rights on the PC to complete these steps and restore full access to the desktop.
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 one application. In contrast, a multi-app kiosk allows access to a limited selection of apps. Both configurations use Assigned Access to manage permissions. 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 administrator rights are available. First, open Settings by pressing the Win and I together, or by clicking Start and 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. Press the Win+I to open Settings , or click Start and select the gear icon.
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
PowerShell offers an alternative if the Settings app fails to open on Windows 11. This method also requires administrator privileges to execute the necessary commands.
- Right-click the Start button and select Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
- Type this command to list current kiosk configurations:
Get-AssignedAccess
3. Run the following command to remove the configuration:
Remove-AssignedAccess
Troubleshooting Locked-out Scenarios
Locked-out users facing an unresponsive keyboard on a Windows 11 kiosk should try pressing Ctrl + Alt + Del. This action brings up the sign-in screen.
Summary
Kiosks can be removed from Windows 11 using either the Settings menu or PowerShell, which lifts restrictions and restores normal computer functionality.
Why is the 'Remove Kiosk' button missing in Settings?
The 'Remove Kiosk' button might be missing in Windows 11 Settings if administrative rights are lacking, or if Group Policy or MDM managed the initial kiosk deployment.
Can I remove a Kiosk account remotely?
Devices managed by an MDM solution like Microsoft Intune allow remote kiosk profile removal through configuration policy updates. Standalone computers require remote access software to execute PowerShell commands as an administrator to delete the assigned access profile.
Does deleting a Kiosk account delete the user profile data?
Deleting the kiosk account through Windows settings or PowerShell removes the user profile and all associated local data. Back up any necessary files stored within that specific user account folder before proceeding with deletion to prevent 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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