📘 Login Banner via GPO- How to Set a Security Message at Login via Group Policy (GPO)

This tutorial explains how to display a login banner or legal notice when users sign into Windows devices on a domain. This is often used to show security warnings, acceptable use policies, or legal disclaimers.

Step 1: Open Group Policy Management Console

On a domain controller or a machine with the GPMC installed:

Start → Run → gpmc.msc

Step 2: Create or Edit a GPO

1. Navigate to your domain or an Organizational Unit (OU).
2. Right-click and select "Create a GPO in this domain, and Link it here…” or edit an existing GPO.

Step 3: Configure the Security Message

In the GPO editor, go to:

Computer Configuration
 └── Policies
     └── Windows Settings
         └── Security Settings
             └── Local Policies
                 └── Security Options

Find and configure the following two settings:

• Interactive logon: Message title for users attempting to log on
• Interactive logon: Message text for users attempting to log on

Recommended General Message

Title:

Authorized Use Only

Text:

You are accessing a secured system.

This system is for authorized users only. By continuing, you agree to comply with organizational policies and security guidelines.

All actions may be monitored and recorded. Unauthorized access is prohibited and may lead to disciplinary action or legal consequences.

If you are not authorized, please disconnect immediately.

Step 4: Apply the GPO

To apply the policy immediately, run the following command on a client machine:

gpupdate /force

Then log off or reboot to verify that the message appears before login.

Note: Always test GPO changes in a controlled environment before deploying them network-wide.