Disble programs at certain times

[timbo343]

Quick question.... in group policy is there a way to stop and start users using certain programs at certain times? Its just that we are probs making kids make small mini games during lunch times, but dont want them to access this program during lessons. Can it be done?

 

T

[localzuk]

Not that I know of, but you could do it with a network control program such as ABTutor Control or NetSchool. Or you could write a little VBS script that checks the time and only runs the app if it is during the allowed period. Then just have that as the shortcut to the app rather than an ordinary shortcut.

[RobFuller]

Do you have any examples of this type of script, would be really handy!

[localzuk]

This is where I have to come clean and say I have never used a VBS script... However, I am sure some others of the forum would be able to give you some pointers. I could rustle up a c# application to do the job but that seems like overkill.

[Geoff]

How about having all your 'games' in a separate share then using a Scheduled Tasks to manipulate the folder permissions when required.

 

Alternatively migrate them to client server based multilayer games. That way you can just take the server offline when you don't want them to play. The Quake series is a good one to try as its open source now and has sensible command line options to force what happens when they run the client.

 

Bonus points will be awarded for transferring pictures of the kids 'favourite' teachers to in game player models.