14 DAY TRIAL // Administrators whose computers are running Windows 10 Pro edition can no longer use Group Policy to block access to the Windows Store following a recent update released by Microsoft and specifically aimed at this SKU.
Previously, IT administrators in charge of Windows 10 Pro systems could block users from launching the store using dedicated rules in Group Policy, but Microsoft claims that the store is actually an essential part of the operating system and doing this is not recommended.
The company has thus removed the possibility of restricting access to the store, so only IT admins on Enterprise and Education versions of Windows 10 can continue doing that using either the Group Policy or the AppLocker.
Only available for Enterprise and Education
In a statement for ZDNet, Microsoft confirmed the change and explained that blocking the Windows Store is a feature that makes more sense for enterprises, especially given the fact that IT admins working with this version want full control over their every system.
“Microsoft is focused on helping enterprises manage their environment while giving people choice in the apps and devices they use to be productive across work and life. Windows 10 Enterprise is our offering that provides IT pros with the most granular control over company devices,” the company said.
“Windows 10 Pro offers a subset of those capabilities and is recommended for small and mid-size businesses looking for some management controls, but not the full suite necessary for IT pros at larger enterprises. The ability to block access to the Windows Store is typically for organizations who want more control over corporate-owned devices. This fits into the value of Windows 10 Enterprise.”
Windows Store, increasingly important role in Windows 10
The Windows Store is becoming an essential part of Windows 10 on both PCs and smartphones and this is one of the reasons Microsoft needs it to be always active on Home and Pro systems.
The Store has become the one destination for everything in the operating system and in the future, it will also provide access to Microsoft Edge extensions and other content that would make sense for Pro users.
Plus, since it’s an update distribution channel for apps and browser add-ons, it does make sense for Windows 10 Pro computers to retain access to the store and thus make sure that they always run the latest version of installed software.