5 Ways to Access Local Group Policy Editor on Windows 10

By Achilles Hill | Last Updated April 11, 2025

You can access the Local Group Policy Editor (see the following picture) on your Windows 10 computer with the help of Run, Search, Start Menu, Command Prompt and Windows PowerShell. For more info, please keep on reading.

Video guide on how to access Local Group Policy Editor on Windows 10:

What Is the Local Group Policy Editor?

The Local Group Policy Editor provides a centralized interface for managing configuration settings, security policies, and administrative templates. It is primarily used to:

• Manage system and user policies
• Restrict or allow access to features
• Configure Windows updates and firewall rules

Way 1: Access the editor by Run.

Step 1: Right-tap the lower-left corner on the desktop to open the Quick Access Menu, and open Run.

Step 2: Enter gpedit.msc and click OK.

Way 2: Enter Group Policy Editor via Search.

Step 1: Press Windows+X to open the Quick Access Menu, and choose Search.

Step 2: On the Search panel, enter group policy in the box and click Edit group policy.

Way 3: Access the editor from Start Menu.

Click the bottom-left Start button to open the Start Menu, enter gpedit.msc in the empty box and tap gpedit in the results.

Way 4: Access Group Policy Editor through Command Prompt.

Step 1: Open the Quick Access Menu with Windows+X, and click Command Prompt.

Step 2: Type gpedit (or gpedit.msc) in the Command Prompt window and hit Enter.

Way 5: Open the editor in Windows PowerShell.

Step 1: Tap the lower-left Start button, and click Windows PowerShell in the Start Menu.

Step 2: Input gpedit in the Windows PowerShell and press Enter.

FAQs on Local Group Policy Editor

Q1: Why is gpedit.msc not working on my PC?

You may be using Windows 10 Home, which doesn’t include the Group Policy Editor by default. Consider upgrading or enabling it via third-party methods (not officially recommended).

Q2: What can I configure with Group Policy?

You can manage Windows Update settings, system behavior, application restrictions, security options, and more.

Q3: Is it safe to modify Group Policy settings?

Yes, as long as you understand the changes being made. Misconfiguration can lead to restricted access or system instability.

Related Articles:

• 5 Ways to Turn on Registry Editor in Windows 10
• 6 Ways to Open Private Character Editor in Windows 10
• 4 Ways to Open Fax Cover Page Editor in Windows 10
• 4 Ways to Open Ease of Access Center in Windows 10
• 4 Ways to Open Command Prompt in Windows 10