3 Ways to Disable Fast User Switching in Windows 10

Fast User Switching in Windows 10 lets users switch accounts without logging out of their current session. Sounds convenient—until it starts hogging system resources, causing slowdowns, or becoming a security concern. If you’re managing multiple users or just want to keep things streamlined, disabling Fast User Switching makes sense.

Here are three solid ways to do it:

1. Use the Local Group Policy Editor

Best for: Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education users.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Logon
3. Double-click “Hide entry points for Fast User Switching”.
4. Select Enabled, then click Apply and OK.

This hides the “Switch user” option from the Start menu, Ctrl+Alt+Del screen, and Task Manager.

2. Use the Windows Registry

Best for: Advanced users or Windows 10 Home edition.

Caution: Editing the registry can break things. Back it up first.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Go to:
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
3. Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it:
   HideFastUserSwitching
4. Double-click it, set the value to 1, and click OK.
5. Restart your computer.

3. Use a PowerShell Script (Optional Automation)

Best for: IT admins managing multiple machines.

Script:

Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System" -Name "HideFastUserSwitching" -Value 1 -Type DWord

Run this in an elevated PowerShell window (as administrator). You can also deploy it through Group Policy scripts or a management platform.

Final Tip

Disabling Fast User Switching won’t log out current users—it just removes the visible options to switch without signing out. If you’re managing shared machines, this can tighten control and keep performance in check.

Got questions or other Windows tweaks you want to learn? Drop a comment below.

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!