Cool Windows Tricks

This cool trick will allow you to create a dialog box that will be presented to all users before logging onto the computer.  This is normally used to warn users the the PC is only to be used by authorized users, or to give some type of Legal notification.  This message can be created and customized to say whatever you want it to say (I'm thinking it's practical joke time!).

Open your registry and find the appropriate key for your operating system.

Windows 95, 98 and Me:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Winlogon

Windows NT, 2000 and XP:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon

Modify the value named 'LegalNoticeCaption' to represent the caption on the dialog box (e.g. 'WARNING!'). If this value doesn't already exist create it. (Data type: String value)

Modify the value named 'LegalNoticeText' to represent the body of the dialog box (e.g. 'Do Not Attempt to Logon to this system unless you are an authorized user!')

Exit your registry and restart Windows, and the next time you boot up you should be presented with the dialog box before logging on.


Disclaimer: Modifying the registry can cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall your operating system. We cannot guarantee that problems resulting from modifications to the registry can be solved. Use the information provided at your own risk.

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