Keep users from running Windows Messenger in XP or Vista

[Jeff]

Do you have a computer that you share with others (for example, your children) and don't want them to be able to use Windows Messenger? There are third party programs you can buy to control the running of certain programs, but there's an easier and cheaper way to disable Messenger in XP or Vista, using Group Policy.

1. Log on as an administrator.
2. Click Start | Run.
3. In the Run box, type gpedit.msc to open the Group Policy editor. In Vista, you will be prompted to continue. Click the Continue button.
4. In the left pane, under Local Computer Policy | Computer Configuration, expand Administrative Templates and then Windows Components.
5. Double click Windows Messenger.
6. In the right pane, double click the policy "Do not allow Windows Messenger to be run."
7. Click the Enabled option.

Note that Remote Assistance will not be able to use Windows Messenger when you disable it this way.

Source: WXPNews