Displaying custom security messages on the logon screen is a valuable feature for system administrators. It allows organizations to provide users with important legal notices, security policies, or other critical information they must acknowledge before accessing the system.
This guide will show you how to configure these messages using Group Policy.
Supported Platforms
- Windows 10
- Windows Server 2016, 2019, 2022
Prerequisites
- Administrative Privileges: Access to the Group Policy Management Editor
- Group Membership: Membership in the Administrator’s group or equivalent
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Access the Group Policy Editor
- Domain Group Policy: Open the Group Policy Management Console by typing
gpmc.msc
in the Run dialog (Win+R
). - Local Group Policy: Open the Run dialog (
Win+R
), typegpedit.msc
, and press Enter.
2. Locate Security Options
- Navigate to:
Computer Configuration -> Policies -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options
3. Set Up the Security Message
- Message Title:
- Message Text:
- Find the setting:
Interactive logon: Message text for users attempting to log on
- Double-click it to open the properties dialog.
- Enter the body of the message in the provided text box.
- Click OK.
- Find the setting:
4. Apply the Configuration
- Save and close the Group Policy Editor.
- To ensure changes take effect:
- Restart the affected computers.
- Alternatively, run the following command in Command Prompt:
gpupdate /force
Key Notes
- The configured security message will display on the logon screen for all users accessing the system.
- Keep messages clear, concise, and aligned with your organization’s policies or legal requirements.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Message Not Displaying:
- Verify that the Group Policy Object (GPO) is applied to the correct computers.
- Use the following command to check applied policies and generate a report:
gpresult /h report.html
- Domain Environment:
- Ensure the GPO is linked to the appropriate Organizational Unit (OU).
Additional Resources
- Microsoft Group Policy Documentation
- Refer to your organization’s IT security policy for message content guidelines.
By implementing this setup, you can ensure users are informed of critical security or policy requirements before accessing your systems.