Application Locker

While offering a powerful environment for nearly all domains of activity, the computer can also keep you distracted while working. However, with the proper applications you can lock down certain Windows features or apps so you can better focus on the task at hand. One such utility is AppLocker and promises to do exactly what the name suggests.

With the setup process taking only several settings and requiring minimum attention, you are free to launch the application. All features are stored in a compact and intuitive interface and even though there is no included help manual it poses no accommodation problems whatsoever.

As you figured out, the core function is to completely restrict applications you choose. By default, you can select from a decent list that includes Notepad, MS Paint, Internet Explorer, as well as all tools included in the Microsoft Office suite.

It's enough tick the check box next to its corresponding element and hit the “Save” button in order for restrictions to be applied. The reverse process can be done for applications individually, or with the help of the “Unlock All” button.

You can handle and populate the existing list with applications you consider more suitable than the ones already suggested. The configurations panel displays a list of applications that can be blocked, with a field for a name and one for the executable file.

Unfortunately, there is no included explorer to navigate to the target executable file and have it selected. You don't have to write down the full path, just the name and EXE extension, but you must pay attention and provide the exact name, otherwise AppLocker is not able to locate the specified item to block.

To sum it up, AppLocker gets the job done flawlessly and managed to lock down all applications we threw at it. However, it still lacks a few features, with no password protection method or the possibility to work over LAN or multiple accounts. Even so, it can prove to be useful in keeping you focused.