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Disabling Autoplay in Windows XP
What is Autoplay and Why Should I Disable it?
Autoplay is a feature available in Microsoft Windows that allows you to automatically launch a program when a CD, DVD, jump drive, or other external device is inserted into your computer. This mechanism is commonly used to start the installation of software, such as Microsoft Office, automatically when you insert the installation disk.
While Autoplay is a convenient feature for users, it is also a significantly high security risk for your computer. If the Autoplay files found on the device, such as a jump drive, were infected with a virus, the infection could be automatically transferred into your computer once the device was inserted, even if you do not open any of the files on the jump drive. However, you can protect your computer from this threat by making the adjustments listed in our guide below.
Step 1:
Click the Start button.
Then, c lick the Run... button.
Step 2:
Type gpedit.msc in the Open: field.
Then, click the OK button.
Step 3:
Click the Computer Configuration folder.
Then, double-click the Administrative Templates folder.
Step 4:
Double-click the System folder.
Step 5:
Double-click the Turn off Autoplay icon.
Step 6:
Mark the radio button in front of Enabled.
Then, choose All drives in the drop-down menu next to Turn off Autoplay on: menu.
Finally, click the OK button.
Congratulations! You have successfully disabled Autoplay in Windows XP. If you have an questions or concerns, please contact the Helpdesk at helpdesk@valdosta.edu or 229-245-HELP (4357). Please note that our work request system can only accept emails sent from a VSU email address.