Remove Microsoft Store and Mail icons for Windows 10 through GPO

jon alderson 96 Reputation points
2020-11-18T00:14:52.713+00:00

Good afternoon all, I have a client requesting that we remove the Microsoft Store and Mail icons from users tasbbars via GPO. While removing store is simple enough, removing mail has me asking a question. In an article I found (https://deploymentresearch.com/removing-windows-store-and-mail-icon-from-the-windows-10-v1703-taskbar/) it says to create an XML file and then attach it to your Start Layout policy. Now on my 2019 server I see a Start Screen Layout, but not Start Layout. Perhaps they are one in the same, but I do not want to risk blowing up users start menu's if this were not the case. So that is my question to you all, is Start Screen Layout and Start layout one in the same? Is it safe to create XML file and then attach it via the GPO policy? Thank you all for your help, it is greatly appreciated!

Windows
Windows
A family of Microsoft operating systems that run across personal computers, tablets, laptops, phones, internet of things devices, self-contained mixed reality headsets, large collaboration screens, and other devices.
4,757 questions
Windows 10 Setup
Windows 10 Setup
Windows 10: A Microsoft operating system that runs on personal computers and tablets.Setup: The procedures involved in preparing a software program or application to operate within a computer or mobile device.
1,906 questions
0 comments

1 answer

Sort by: Most helpful
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Teemo Tang 11,341 Reputation points
    2020-11-18T02:07:02.79+00:00

    On my Windows Server 2019, the setting is named Start Layout rather than Start Screen Layout in Computer Configuration and User Configuration. The method you mentioned is link is available.
    40526-start.png
    Also, we usually think Start Screen Layout and Start Layout is a same thing.
    Reference
    Configure Windows 10 taskbar
    https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/configuration/configure-windows-10-taskbar

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    If the Answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and upvote it.
    Note: Please follow the steps in our documentation to enable e-mail notifications if you want to receive the related email notification for this thread.

    0 comments