Последние обновления Windows 11 изменили действие клавиши Print Screen по умолчанию: если ранее при её нажатии тут же создавался снимок экрана с сохранением в буфере обмена, теперь открывается интерфейс «Ножницы» для создания скриншота.
Не всем такое нововведение пришлось по душе и, если требуется можно убрать ножницы с клавиши Print Screen, далее в инструкции о том, как это сделать. Про создание снимков экрана в последней версии ОС подробно: Как сделать скриншот в Windows 11.
Отключение запуска «Ножницы» при нажатии Print Screen в Параметрах Windows 11
Основной способ вернуть прежнюю функцию клавиши Print Screen — изменение соответствующих параметров, шаги будут следующими:
- Откройте «Параметры» — «Специальные возможности» — «Клавиатура».
- В разделе «Экранная клавиатура, клавиши доступа и экран печати» отключите параметр «Используйте клавишу Print Screen для открытия Ножниц».
Готово, теперь Print Screen будет работать так, как вы привыкли.
Подробно о сочетаниях клавиш для создания снимков экрана и дополнительных связанных функциях можно прочесть в статье: Способы сделать скриншот в Windows 11.
Настройка в реестре
Если по какой-то причине использование «Параметров» вам не подходит, изменить поведение клавиши Print Screen можно в реестре:
- Нажмите клавиши Win+R, введите regedit и нажмите Enter для открытия редактора реестра.
- Перейдите в раздел реестра
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Keyboard
- В указанном разделе создайте новый параметр DWORD с именем PrintScreenKeyForSnippingEnabled и значением 0 (при этом значении клавиша Print Screen не будет открывать «Ножницы»).
Для того, чтобы изменения вступили в силу, потребуется выполнить перезагрузку компьютера, либо выйти из системы и снова зайти.
Через приложение «Настройки»
Откройте «Настройки» (сочетание клавиш Win + I). В меню слева выберите категорию «Доступность», затем в правой части экрана — раздел «Взаимодействие» и нажмите на опцию «Клавиатура». Пролистайте вниз до раздела «Наэкранная клавиатура, клавиши доступа и Print Screen» и отключите параметр «Использовать кнопку Print Screen для открытия инструмента для создания скриншотов».
—
Через редактор реестра
Перед началом работы обязательно создайте резервную копию реестра. В строке поиска меню «Пуск» или в поле «Команда запуска» введите regedit и нажмите Enter. Перейдите к ключу:
HKEY_CURRENT_USERControl PanelKeyboard.
В правой части окна найдите значение DWORD PrintScreenKeyForSnippingEnabled, дважды щёлкните на него и установите в поле данных значение 0. Нажмите ОК для подтверждения.
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Через редактор локальной групповой политики
Откройте окно «Выполнить» (сочетание клавиш Win + R), введите gpedit.msc и нажмите ОК. Перейдите по пути:
«Конфигурация компьютера» → «Административные шаблоны» → «Компоненты Windows» → «Планшетный ПК» → «Аксессуары».
В правой части окна найдите политику «Не разрешать запуск инструмента для создания скриншотов», дважды щёлкните на неё. Выберите «Включено», нажмите «Применить» и затем «ОК». После выполнения изменений перезагрузите компьютер.
—
Удаление инструмента для создания скриншотов (Snipping Tool)
Чтобы полностью удалить приложение, нажмите Windows + X, выберите в меню «Приложения и функции». В строке поиска найдите Snipping Tool, нажмите на значок с тремя точками рядом с приложением и выберите «Удалить». Подтвердите действие в диалоговом окне, нажав «Удалить» ещё раз.
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The Print Screen button on Windows 11 allows users to take screenshots of their computer screen and save them. However, users report issues regarding the Print Screen button taking unauthorized screenshots of sensitive information on their computers.
Hence, Disabling the print screen button on Windows 11 will help you prevent the risks. You can also read about how to fix the print screen not working on Windows 11.
Can I disable screenshots on Windows?
Yes, it is possible to disable screenshots on Windows by using third-party software or changing the registry settings.
However, it is not a foolproof technique and can be bypassed by experienced users. Additionally, disabling screenshots may impact the functionality of specific programs that rely on screen capture functionality.
So, we recommend you carefully consider your options or consult a professional for more enlightenment.
How do I disable the Print Screen button on Windows 11?
1. Use the Windows settings app
- Press the Windows + I button to open the Windows Settings.
- Click on the Accessibility category and select Keyboard from the right-side menu.
- Navigate to the Use the Print Screen button to open screen snipping and toggle off the option to disable it.
- Close the windows settings and restart your PC.
The Windows OS has a Use the Print Screen button to open screen snipping option that allows them to enable and disable Print Screen. So, toggling the option off can help.
Check out our guide on how to fix Windows Settings not opening if you have difficulties using Windows settings.
2. Modify the Registry Editor
- Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type regedit, then press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
- Copy the following path and paste it into the Registry Editor’s address bar, then press Enter:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Keyboard
- Right-click anywhere in the right pane, select New from the drop-down, then click on DWORD (32-bit) Value from the list of options.
- Rename the New value to PrintScreenKeyForSnippingEnabled and press Enter.
- Double-click on the PrintScreenKeyForSnippingEnabled value, input 0 in the Value data bar to disable it, and 1 to enable it.
- Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC to save changes.
Tweaking the Registry Editor allows you access to information concerning programs that allow users to modify relevant keys, like disabling and enabling the Print Screen button. You can read about how to fix a corrupt registry on Windows.
- Recent Windows 11 update lets you disable profanity filter in voice typing
- Microsoft wants Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11 or Copilot + PCs
- Windows 11 KB5055627 update makes File Explorer more fluid
- A few keyboard settings are moving from Control Panel to Settings app in Windows 11
- Details of Windows 11 25H2 spotted in the wild; likely to be a smaller update
You may also use third-party apps to disable the Print Screen function on Windows. These help businesses or individuals who want to protect sensitive information from being captured and shared.
Likewise, such apps work by preventing the user from taking screenshots or capturing images on windows 11, thus ensuring the confidentiality of their data.
Also, you may be interested in our guide on taking screenshots or capturing images on Windows 11.
Don’t hesitate to let us know which procedure worked for you.
Henderson Jayden Harper
Windows Software Expert
Passionate about technology, Crypto, software, Windows, and everything computer-related, he spends most of his time developing new skills and learning more about the tech world.
He also enjoys gaming, writing, walking his dog, and reading and learning about new cultures. He also enjoys spending private time connecting with nature.
Download Windows Speedup Tool to fix errors and make PC run faster
Windows OS comes with a built-in screenshot utility called Snipping Tool that we all are well aware of. Snipping Tool utility lets you capture screenshots in free-form mode, window, rectangle mode, and full-screen mode. You just need to press Win+Shift+S hotkey to bring up or activate its screen snipping mode and use it. To make it even easier for users, Windows 11 OS provides the option to remap the Print Screen button with screen snipping mode. So, you hit the Print Screen (PrtScn or PrntScrn) key and screen snipping will be in front of you. But those who don’t want this can disable the Print Screen button to open screen snipping in their Windows 11 computer.
Disabling the Print Screen button for this purpose doesn’t mean that it will disable the Print Screen button completely on your system. You can continue using the Print Screen button for its default functionality or for other purposes. The only thing is the PrtScn/PrntScrn key won’t associate with the screen snipping task anymore. You will also be able to undo the changes anytime.
If you want to disable the Print Screen button to open screen snipping in Windows 11, then it can be done using two built-in options. These are:
- Using the Settings app
- Using the Registry Editor.
Let’s check these options one by one.
1] Using the Setting app
The steps to disable the Print Screen button (PrtScn, PrntScrn, or PrintScr) for screen snipping using the Settings app in Windows 11 are as follows:
- Use the Win+I hotkey to open the Windows 11 Settings app
- Select the Accessibility category from the left section
- Under the Interaction section on the right side, click on the Keyboard option
- Scroll down to the On-screen keyboard, access keys, and Print Screen section
- Turn off Use the Print screen button to open screen snipping button.
You can repeat the above steps and turn on the same option to remap the Print Screen button to open the screen snipping.
Related: Fix Snipping Tool This app can’t open error
2] Using the Registry Editor
When you do tweak an option in the Settings app, its Registry entry is created and changed accordingly. And, the same thing applies to this setting also. So, you can also use Registry Editor to disable the Print Screen button to open the screen snipping in Windows 11. For using this option, we advise you to backup Windows Registry first, and then follow these steps:
- In the Run Command box or Search box, type regedit, and hit Enter. This will open the Windows Registry (or Registry Editor)
- Now jump to the Keyboard key. Use this path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Keyboard
- On the right section, look for the PrintScreenKeyForSnippingEnabled DWORD value, and double-click it
- In the Edit value box, add 0 in the Value data field
- Use the OK button.
Later, when you want to use the Print Screen button to open screen snipping using Registry Editor, you can follow the above steps. Access the PrintScreenKeyForSnippingEnabled DWORD value in
Windows Registry and put 1 in the Value data field. Save the changes using the OK button.
That’s all! Hope this helps.
Also read: How to restore old Snipping Tool in Windows 11
How do I change the screenshot button in Windows 11?
In order to change the default screenshot button in Windows 11, you need to use a hotkey management software on your computer. As of now, there is no in-built option to modify the default Print Screen keyboard shortcut. That is why a third-party application is required to replace the PrintScreen button that captured screenshots.
How do I take a screenshot without the Print Screen button in Windows 11/10?
There are multiple ways to take a screenshot without the Print Screen button in Windows 11/10. You can use:
- Win+Shift+S hotkey and open the Snipping Tool to capture screenshots
- Windows On-Screen Keyboard
- Remap the Print Screen key
- Free screen capture software.
Read next: A problem with Windows is preventing Screen Snipping from opening.
Laxman has done Bachelor’s in Computer Science, followed by an MBA. Writing about Windows OS and the free software and services that are available for the Windows operating system is what excites him.
How to Disable Print Screen in Windows 11
In today’s digital age, the ability to share and capture screen content is often seen as both a necessary feature and a potential security risk. Windows 11, with its modern interface and enhanced capabilities, presents users with an effective tool in the form of the print screen function. While this feature can be very useful for capturing images of your screen, there may be instances when you want to disable it to protect sensitive information or maintain confidentiality. In this article, we will delve deep into methods for disabling the Print Screen function in Windows 11, exploring various approaches suited for different user needs.
Understanding the Print Screen Function
The Print Screen (PrtScn) key is a common feature on Windows keyboards that allows users to take screenshots. Pressing this key saves an image of your current display to the clipboard, which can then be pasted into applications like Microsoft Paint, Word, or any other compatible software. Users can also utilize key combinations such as Alt + PrtScn to capture only the active window or Windows + Shift + S to open the Snipping Tool for more customized screenshots.
Given the ease with which sensitive information can be captured, there are significant security concerns involved, especially in corporate environments or when handling confidential data. This has led many administrators and users to seek ways to disable or restrict the Print Screen functionality in Windows 11.
Why Disable Print Screen?
There are several compelling reasons to consider disabling the Print Screen feature:
- Data Security: Organizations that handle sensitive data, such as customer information, financial details, or proprietary content, may want to prevent unauthorized screenshotting.
- Prevent Data Leakage: In environments with non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) or strict compliance requirements, it’s crucial to minimize the risk of data leakage through screen captures.
- Control of Sensitive Content: In educational settings, instructors may want to prevent students from taking screenshots of online examinations or proprietary learning materials.
- Reducing Distractions: Limiting the ability to capture content can sometimes help maintain focus by reducing the chance of sharing background distractions.
Methods to Disable Print Screen in Windows 11
Disabling the Print Screen functionality can be done through different approaches, depending on whether you are an individual user or managing multiple machines in an organization. Here are various methods to consider:
Method 1: Using Group Policy Editor (For Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise Users)
For users of Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, the Group Policy Editor provides a robust solution to disable the Print Screen key:
-
Access Group Policy Editor:
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type
gpedit.msc
and hit Enter.
-
Navigate to the Relevant Policy:
- In the Group Policy Editor, go to the following path:
User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> File Explorer
- In the Group Policy Editor, go to the following path:
-
Edit the Policy:
- In the right pane, find the policy named «Do not allow the use of the Print Screen key».
- Double-click on it and set it to Enabled.
-
Apply Changes:
- Click OK to confirm your selection and close the Group Policy Editor.
-
Restart Your Computer:
- For the change to take effect, restart your computer.
This method effectively prevents the use of the Print Screen key for all users impacted by this policy.
Method 2: Editing the Registry (All Versions of Windows)
If you’re using Windows 11 Home or want to apply a more manual approach, editing the Windows Registry can help:
-
Open the Registry Editor:
- Press Win + R, type
regedit
, and press Enter.
- Press Win + R, type
-
Backup Your Registry:
- Before making changes, always back up your registry settings by clicking File > Export, and save your backup.
-
Navigate to the Right Key:
- Go to the following path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionPoliciesExplorer
- Go to the following path:
-
Create a New DWORD Value:
- Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it
NoPrintScreen
.
- Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it
-
Set the Value:
- Double-click the newly created value and set it to 1.
-
Close Registry Editor:
- Exit the Registry Editor.
-
Restart Your PC:
- Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Modifying the registry should be done cautiously, as incorrect changes can cause system instability.
Method 3: Utilizing Third-Party Software
For users who are uncomfortable with modifying system settings or the registry, third-party software solutions may also offer options to disable the Print Screen function. Some programs designed for screen management or parental control may include an option to disable the Print Screen key.
-
Research Various Options: Look for applications that focus on security, usage tracking, or digital rights management.
-
Install the Software: Follow the installation instructions according to the software’s guidelines.
-
Explore Settings: Navigate to the settings or functionality options to disable the Print Screen key.
Software like keyboard remappers can also remap the Print Screen key to another function, rendering it unusable for taking screenshots.
Method 4: Remapping the Print Screen Key
By utilizing key remapping techniques, you can repurpose the Print Screen key to perform another action or do nothing at all. Software utilities like AutoHotkey can facilitate this process:
-
Download AutoHotkey:
- Visit the AutoHotkey official website and download the application.
-
Create a New Script:
- Right-click on your Desktop, select New > AutoHotkey Script, and name it as desired.
-
Edit the Script:
- Right-click the script file and select Edit Script.
-
Add Code to Remap Print Screen:
- Insert the following line in the script:
PrintScreen::Return
- Insert the following line in the script:
-
Save and Run the Script:
- Save your changes and double-click the script to run it.
-
Verify Functionality:
- Press the Print Screen key to confirm it does not capture screenshots.
Conclusion
Whether you are a casual user or a business professional, the need to disable the Print Screen function may arise from a variety of concerns, particularly related to data privacy and security. Windows 11 offers multiple methods to disable or repurpose the Print Screen key, catering to a wide range of scenarios—from straightforward settings adjustments to more technical measures like registry edits and third-party applications.
It’s essential to determine the approach that best aligns with your environment and technical expertise. If you make changes to system settings or the registry, always ensure backups are in place. A thoughtful approach to using screenshots can significantly enhance data protection and security, ultimately helping you promote a safer and more secure digital environment.