The Windows AutoPlay Policy allows administrators to control AutoPlay behavior on Windows devices.
AutoPlay determines how Windows handles removable media and devices (such as USB drives, memory cards, and external storage) when they are connected.
This policy is supported on both BYOD and corporate-owned Windows devices.
Requirements
This policy is supported on:
Windows Pro 10+
Windows Enterprise 10+
Windows Education 10+
Windows SE 10+
IoT Enterprise / IoT Enterprise LTSC 10+
Settings
Allow Auto Play Change
Description:
Controls whether the user is allowed to modify AutoPlay settings in Windows.
When enabled, users can change AutoPlay options from Windows Settings (e.g., choosing what happens when a USB device or memory card is connected).
When disabled, Windows prevents users from altering AutoPlay settings, ensuring consistent device behavior in accordance with IT policy.
Values:
Option | Description |
Enabled | Users can change AutoPlay settings. (Default) |
Disabled | Users cannot modify AutoPlay settings; behavior remains fixed as defined by system policies. |
Minimum Requirements:
Windows Pro 10+, Windows Enterprise 10+, Windows Education 10+, Windows SE 10+, IoT Enterprise / IoT Enterprise LTSC 10+
Summary
The Windows AutoPlay Policy provides organizations with control over how USB devices and removable media behave when connected to Windows systems.
By enforcing or restricting AutoPlay settings, administrators can:
Reduce risk of malware execution from removable media
Ensure consistent device behavior
Strengthen compliance with corporate IT security requirements
This policy is especially useful in managed environments where removable media must be tightly controlled.