This file is normally very simple and basically just points to a file on the disc, usually the setup file or install file. If a CD contained a file called autorun.inf in the root directory, Windows would detect it automatically and follow the instructions in that file. Most people think AutoRun and AutoPlay are just two terms for the same thing, but that is not accurate. AutoRun is a feature that first came out in Windows 95, It's intended to make installing apps for non-technicians easier. In order to understand AutoPlay, though, you also have to understand another very similar feature called AutoRun. If the policy settings conflict, the policy setting in Computer Configuration takes precedence over the policy setting in User Configuration.AutoPlay is a feature in Windows that will automatically scan a device when it is connected to your computer and based on your settings, will either perform a specified action or do nothing at all. Note: This policy setting appears in both the Computer Configuration and User Configuration folders. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, AutoPlay is enabled. You cannot use this setting to enable Autoplay on drives on which it is disabled by default.

This policy setting disables Autoplay on additional types of drives. If you enable this policy setting, Autoplay is disabled on CD-ROM and removable media drives, or disabled on all drives. Starting with Windows XP SP2, Autoplay is enabled for removable drives as well, including Zip drives and some USB mass storage devices. Prior to Windows XP SP2, Autoplay is disabled by default on removable drives, such as the floppy disk drive (but not the CD-ROM drive), and on network drives. As a result, the setup file of programs and the music on audio media start immediately. This policy setting allows you to turn off the Autoplay feature.Īutoplay begins reading from a drive as soon as you insert media in the drive.

Autoplay windows 10