How To Disable Windows Ink Workspace in Windows 10

Introduction: Windows Ink Workspace is a feature in Windows 10 that offers pen and touch input functionality, allowing users to sketch, write, and annotate directly on the screen. While Windows Ink Workspace can be useful for users with touchscreen devices or digital pens, some users may find it unnecessary or prefer to disable it for various reasons. In this article, we’ll explore how to disable Windows Ink Workspace in Windows 10, providing users with the flexibility to customize their operating system according to their preferences.

Method 1: Disable Windows Ink Workspace via Settings

  1. Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Click on “Devices.”
  3. In the Devices settings, select “Pen & Windows Ink” from the left sidebar.
  4. Under Pen & Windows Ink settings, locate the option “Windows Ink Workspace.”
  5. Toggle off the switch to disable Windows Ink Workspace.

Method 2: Disable Windows Ink Workspace via Group Policy Editor

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type “gpedit.msc” and press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
  3. Navigate to “User Configuration” > “Administrative Templates” > “Windows Components” > “Windows Ink Workspace.”
  4. Double-click on “Allow Windows Ink Workspace” policy.
  5. Select “Disabled” and click on “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

Method 3: Disable Windows Ink Workspace via Registry Editor

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type “regedit” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to the following registry key:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\WindowsInkWorkspace
  4. If the “WindowsInkWorkspace” key doesn’t exist, right-click on the “Windows” key, select “New” > “Key,” and name it “WindowsInkWorkspace.”
  5. Right-click on the right pane, select “New” > “DWORD (32-bit) Value,” and name it “AllowWindowsInkWorkspace.”
  6. Double-click on the “AllowWindowsInkWorkspace” value and set its data to “0” to disable Windows Ink Workspace.

Conclusion:

While Windows Ink Workspace offers useful features for users with touchscreen devices or digital pens, some users may prefer to disable it to streamline their Windows 10 experience. By following the methods outlined in this article, users can easily disable Windows Ink Workspace using either the Settings app, Group Policy Editor, or Registry Editor. Whether you’re looking to optimize system resources, improve performance, or simply prefer not to use Windows Ink Workspace, these methods provide users with the flexibility to customize their Windows 10 operating system according to their preferences.