How to Disable Start\Help

• Microsoft Windows NT Server version 4.0
• Microsoft Windows NT Workstation version 4.0

SUMMARY

Through the use of policies, much of the desktop can be restricted. Currently, however, there is no way to disable the Start\Help setting through a system policy. This article will describe some methods to disable the Start\Help utility.

MORE INFORMATION

The file opened by Winhlp32.exe when Start\Help is clicked is <%SystemRoot%>\System32\Windows.hlp. If you rename this file, a dialog box is displayed when the file cannot be found, a different dialog box will be displayed if you copy an invalid file to that location.

A better resolution is to include a trivial help file. Such a help file is included in the Zero Administration Kit files. It is called Zak.hlp. If this file is renamed to Windows.hlp in the System32 directory, the following text will be displayed when Start\Help is clicked:

Zero Administration Kit Message

The standard Windows NT 4.0 online Help has been disabled by your administrator.

REFERENCES

More information, as well as the Zak.hlp file can be obtained from Microsoft's Web Site at the following address:

   http://www.microsoft.com/windows/zak/default.htm