Enterprise Toolkit | Windows Registry Reference

FeatureLockDown (Lockable Settings)

Preferences under FeatureLockDown require administrator privileges to change. Setting these preferences locks the user interface so that the end user cannot modify product functionality. The settings on this page include those which do not have a similar setting in user preferences. Do not assume that because a preference is not documented here that it is not lockable. Choose the Lockable tab at the top of the page for a complete list of lockable settings.

Note : On Macintosh, while preference names for unlocked settings do not use Hungarian notation, all locked settings (with the exception of attachment settings) DO USE Hungarian notation. That is, prepend the preference name with its data type ("b" for boolean, "i" for integer, and so on). On Mac, the locked incarnation of a setting uses the same name as if it resides on Windows. For configuration and deployment details, refer to the Enterprise Administration Guide.


This preference category contains the following subfeature(s):

Attachments

Summary table
bEnableBlacklistForOpenSave Reverts the tBuiltInPermList behavior to that of the pre 21.011.20029 build.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Nov. 2022, both tracks
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary Reverts the tBuiltInPermList behavior to that of the pre 21.011.20029 build.
Details Beginning with build 21.011.20029, extensions added in the tBuiltInPermList with restriction level 3 will be missing from the menu items in all the save and open dialogs. This feature is enabled by default. Users can revert to the old behavior by setting FeatureLockDown/bEnableBlacklistForOpenSave to 0. Possible values include:
  • 0: Revert to the legacy behavior.
  • 1: Do nothing. Retain the new behavior.

What's New Experience

Summary table
bWhatsNewExp Specifies whether to disable the What's New experience.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # June, 2022, Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to disable the What's New experience.
Details This feature was phased in incrementally over 2022. When enabled, the default user on first launch will see a What's New screen as well as a See new features notication. These UI items appear once. Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable the What's New experience.
  • 1: Disable.

Modern Viewer

Summary table
bEnableAV2Enterprise Specifies whether to enable the Modern Viewer.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # June 2023, Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to enable the Modern Viewer.
Details The new app UI is rolling out in phases over 2023. As of June, 25% of users will see the updated user interface. This preference may interact with bShownViewerOnboarding and bEnableAV2. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't show the Modern Viewer
  • 1: Show the Modern Viewer
GUI mapping In the Modern Viewer, see File > Disable New Acrobat. In the classic viewer, see View > Enable New Acrobat

Accessiblity

Summary table

Protected View

Additional Protected View settings reside in the TrustManager hive.

Summary table
bDisableExpandEnvironmentVariables Provides a method for admins to whitelist user libraries as trusted locations when Protected View is enabled.
Supported on WindowsSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # June 8, all tracks: DC, Classic 2017-2020
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary Provides a method for admins to whitelist user libraries as trusted locations when Protected View is enabled.
Details Protected View restricts features for all documents that do not reside in a trusted location. This new preference provides a way for admins to specify user-specific locations as trusted; in other words, documents with the path C:\Users\%username%\Desktop will open outside Protected View. For example, the user libraries Documents, Downloads, Desktop, and so on. When this preference is off, admins can only specify trusted locations which are static/identical for all users across their organization. Possible values include:
  • 0: Trust user-specific locations.
  • 1: Don't trust user-specific locations.

Sharepoint Integration

Sharepoint settings reside in:

  • FeatureLockDown
  • Workflows
  • AVGeneral

Summary table
bEnableSharePointInChromeExtn Specifies whether to integrate Sharepoint into the Acrobat's Chrome extension.
tSharePointUrls A pipe-separated list of Sharepoint URLs to whitelist.
Supported on WindowsSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Feb 9, Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to integrate Sharepoint into the Acrobat's Chrome extension.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't enable Sharepoint integration.
  • 1: Enable.
Supported on WindowsSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type text: String value > REG_SZ
Default null
Version # Feb 9, Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary A pipe-separated list of Sharepoint URLs to whitelist.
Details Acrobat's Chrome extensions essentially treats these URLs as Sharepoint servers when bEnableSharePointInChromeExtn = 1. Possible values include:
  • User-specified

Starred files

Starring files is similar to "favoriting" or "pinning". Marking a file with a star helps users track important files.

Summary table
bFavoritesFeaturesLockDown Specifies whether to disable and lock the starred file feature.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Oct 2019: Continuous
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to disable and lock the starred file feature.
Details A starred file is somewhat similar to a "favorited" file. This preference overrides bFavoritesStripInRFL . Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable and lock starred files in the recent files list.
  • 1: Use bFavoritesStripInRFL to control this feature.

Bates numbering

Summary table
bBatesLogOriginalFileName Specifies whether to use the original filename in the log file when the user selects Bates number-based output filenames.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Nov 2020: Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to use the original filename in the log file when the user selects Bates number-based output filenames.
Details Users have a UI option to "Replace file names with the starting and ending Bates number." This setting allows users to see the original file name in the log file. Possible values include:
  • 0: Use the starting and ending Bates number as the filename in the log.
  • 1: Retain the original file name.

Services-Master Switches (DC)

These settings apply only to 12.x and later products. By default, Adobe online services are tightly integrated with the user interface so that users can leverage them in enterprise workflows. Adobe's services are rapidly evolving and allow your organization to increase its efficiency with zero infrastructure and management costs.

It is not required, but in general, admins deploy the Continuous track with services enabled. In some environments, the Classic track is deployed without services. It is not required, but in general, admins deploy the Continuous track with services enabled. In some environments, the Classic track is deployed without services.

Legacy product users should refer to Workflows .

Summary table
bToggleAdobeDocumentServices Disables Document Cloud service access except those features controlled by the other preferences.
bUpdater Disables both updates to the product's web-plugin components as well as all services.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # DC
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Disables both updates to the product's web-plugin components as well as all services.
Details For product versions after 11.x, this new preference replaces the now deprecated HKCU services master switch bEnableAcrobatHS . It disables both updates to the product's web-plugin components as well as all services without exception, including any sign-in screen. The setting is not the same as bUpdater which resides directly under FeatureLockDown and disables product updates. Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable services and service component updates.
  • 1: Enable services.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # DC
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Disables Document Cloud service access except those features controlled by the other preferences.
Details This setting does not affect Adobe Send for Signature (Acrobat Sign), preference synchronization, or third party connectors. For the base release, it also did not disable Send and Track (Share); however, it does control Send and Track with the July, 2015 release. For Acrobat Reader, this preference removes Create PDF, Export PDF, Organize, and Combine even if the ID has a subscription to those services. To disable all services, use bUpdater . Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable Document Cloud services.
  • 1: Disable Document Cloud services.

DC Fill & Sign Integration

Summary table
bToggleFillSign Disables Adobe Fill and Sign.
bToggleSendACopy Specifies whether to hide the Send a Copy button from the Fill & Sign tool in Acrobat and Reader.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Oct. 2018 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to hide the Send a Copy button from the Fill & Sign tool in Acrobat and Reader.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Hide the button.
  • 1: Show the button.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # DC
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Disables Adobe Fill and Sign.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable Adobe Fill and Sign.
  • 1: Disable Adobe Fill and Sign.

Services-Acrobat Sign (DC)

These settings apply only to 12.x and later products and control Acrobat Sign features).

Summary table
bToggleAdobeSign Disables Adobe Send for Signature (Acrobat Sign).
bToggleFSSSignatureSaving Specifies whether to save a newly created signature in the cloud.
bToggleManageSign Specifies whether to remove the Signature tab from the Home page's left-hand pane, notifications, and sign tracking cards.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Oct. 2018 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to remove the Signature tab from the Home page's left-hand pane, notifications, and sign tracking cards.
Details When set to 0, the signature tab is hidden, the user will not see any agreements received or sent for signature, and all Acrobat Sign notifications are disabled on the desktop. It also removes signature-related cards under the To Do list. Possible values include:
  • 0: Show the Signature tab.
  • 1: Hide the Signature tab.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # DC
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Disables Adobe Send for Signature (Acrobat Sign).
Details Note that the Oct. 2018 Continuous track release renames "Send for Signature" as "Acrobat Sign". Continuous track installs should also set bToggleManageSign . Preference behavior has not changed, but the UI to which it applies varies across product versions. Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable Adobe Send for Signature (Acrobat Sign).
  • 1: Disable Adobe Send for Signature (Acrobat Sign).
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # DC both tracks
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to save a newly created signature in the cloud.
Details When a user creates a new signature, the dialog offers the option to store the signature in the cloud for later use. This preference also controls saving user initials. Possible values include:
  • 0: Show the Save Signature UI
  • 1: Hide the Save Signature UI
GUI mapping Create Signature dialog > Save Signature

Services (Unified Share)

Applies only to 12.x and later products. Note that with the Oct. 2018 Continuous track release, "Send and Track" has been renamed "Share" or "Share App".

Summary table
bSendMailShareRedirection Change the email icon behavior so that it attaches the document to an email.
bToggleSendAndTrack Disables Adobe Send and Track (some UI is renamed to "Share" since October, 2018)
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # DC
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Disables Adobe Send and Track (some UI is renamed to "Share" since October, 2018)
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable Adobe Send and Track.
  • 1: Disable Adobe Send and Track.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Oct. 2018 both tracks
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\
Summary Change the email icon behavior so that it attaches the document to an email.
Details With the new unified sharing experience, UI for sharing such as the Send, Attach to Email, and the email icon in the top bar, invokes the new unified share pane. However, when users frequently use "Send documents as Attachment", set this preference to 1 to change the behavior of the Email icon so that one-click attaches the file to an email. Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: The email icon opens the share pane.
  • 1: Change the email icon behavior to automatically attach the file to an email.

Services-Preference Synchronization (DC)

Applies only to 12.x and later products.

Summary table
bTogglePrefsSync Disables preferences synchronization.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # DC
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Disables preferences synchronization.
Details This preference disables and locks a new feature which synchronizes desktop preferences across devices on which the user is signed in with an Adobe ID. For more details about what preferences sync, see the Admin Guide . Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable preferences synchronization.
  • 1: Disable preferences synchronization.

Services-Scan app integration (DC)

Users that have installed Adobe Scan on their mobile device can view and access their scans in desktop products. When enabled, a Scan tab appears in the Home view with link to all scans.

Summary table
bShowScanTabInHomeView Specifies whether to disable the Scan tab in Home view.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Oct. 2018 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\
Summary Specifies whether to disable the Scan tab in Home view.
Details When enabled, links to scans appear under the Scan tab in the Home view. Possible values include:
  • 0: Hide the scan tab.
  • 1: Show the Scan tab.

Services-Notifications (DC)

When services are enabled, the product ecosystem sends notifications to users letting them know when a file has been shared, reviewed, signed, and so on. The actions which cause the notification may originate from a desktkop machine, a mobile device or the web. The notifications appear both as desktop messages as well as in-product messages.

Admins can control both the services which send these notifications as well as the notifications themselves. For example, disabling cServices/bUpdater turns off all services and all notifications while disabling bToggleAdobeReview only disables review notifications. In addition to managing notifications via the associated service, notifications can be managed separately through the preferences described below. Notifications are restricted in some specific enterprise environments. For configuration and deployment details, refer to the Enterprise Administration Guide.

Summary table
bDisableThirdPartyPluginNotif Specifies whether to notify users with 32 bit plugins that the app will soon update to 64 bit.
bEnableBellButton Specifies whether to hide in-product messages.
bToggleNotifications Specifies whether to disable all in-product and desktop notifications.
bToggleNotificationToasts Specifies whether to hide desktop notifications.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Oct. 2018 both tracks
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to disable all in-product and desktop notifications.
Details When 0 (or null), feature-specific notifications are managed via the related service preference. When set to 1, this preference disables all notifications irrespective of the values of all other keys. Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable desktop notifications.
  • 1: Disable all desktop notifications.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Oct. 2018 both tracks
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to hide desktop notifications.
Details A value of 1 hides notifications, but the product still fetches and caches them. Possible values include:
  • 0: Show desktop notifications.
  • 1: Hide desktop notifications.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Oct. 2018 both tracks
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to hide in-product messages.
Details A value of 1 hides notifications, but the product still fetches and caches them. Possible values include:
  • 0: Show in-product notifications.
  • 1: Hide in-product notifications.
Supported on WindowsSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Nov 2020 Continuous
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to notify users with 32 bit plugins that the app will soon update to 64 bit.
Details 32 bit plugins will not work in the 64 bit app. The notification provides a "Learn more" link that provides additional details about how to upgrade their plugin. Possible values include:
  • 0: Do not warn the user about 32 bit plugins.
  • 1: Do warn the user.

Services-Cloud Storage (DC)

These settings apply only to 12.x and later products and control access to Document Cloud storage as well as 3rd party cloud storage solutions. When enabled, users that have 3rd party storage accounts will see their cloud storage locations on the Home page under Files.

Summary table
bBoxConnectorEnabled Specifies whether to enable connection to the Box cloud when bToggleWebConnectors is set to 1.
bDropboxConnectorEnabled Specifies whether to enable connection to the Dropbox cloud when bToggleWebConnectors is set to 1.
bGoogleDriveConnectorEnabled Specifies whether to enable connection to the Google Drive cloud when bToggleWebConnectors is set to 1.
bOneDriveConnectorEnabled Specifies whether to enable connection to the OneDrive cloud when bToggleWebConnectors is set to 1.
bToggleDocumentCloud Specifies whether to enable Document Cloud storage.
bToggleWebConnectors Specifies whether to enable cloud storage connectors.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # DC
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to enable Document Cloud storage.
Details DC storage is enabled by default. Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable Document Cloud storage.
  • 1: Disable Document Cloud storage.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Oct. 2018 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to enable cloud storage connectors.
Details Only supported on the Continuous track. Allows controlling in-product access to third party services for file storage. Dropbox support began with the Oct. 13, 2015 release. May 9, 2016: The preference now controls all the third-party connectors, including Box, OneDrive, and Dropbox (not SharePoint). When disabled, Possible values include: Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable 3rd party connectors.
  • 1: Disable 3rd party connectors.
This preference disables 3rd party web connectors and their entry points from the product's UI, including in the Home view's left hand pane and under Add Account as well as custom Open/Save dialogs. If Document Cloud is also disabled, Open and Save dialogs revert to platform dialogs.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Oct. 2018 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to enable connection to the Box cloud when bToggleWebConnectors is set to 1.
Details Overrides a bToggleWebConnectors value of 1. Only supported on the Continuous track. Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable connection to Box
  • 1: Enable connection to Box
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Oct. 2018 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to enable connection to the Dropbox cloud when bToggleWebConnectors is set to 1.
Details Overrides a bToggleWebConnectors value of 1. Only supported on the Continuous track. Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable connection to Dropbox
  • 1: Enable connection to Dropbox
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Oct. 2018 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to enable connection to the OneDrive cloud when bToggleWebConnectors is set to 1.
Details Overrides a bToggleWebConnectors value of 1. Only supported on the Continuous track. Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable connection to OneDrive
  • 1: Enable connection to OneDrive
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Oct. 2018 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to enable connection to the Google Drive cloud when bToggleWebConnectors is set to 1.
Details Overrides a bToggleWebConnectors value of 1. Only supported on the Continuous track. Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable connection to Google Drive
  • 1: Enable connection to Google Drive

Services-Reviews (DC)

Summary table
bEnableRecipientMention Specifies whether to allow participants in a shared review to @mention people who are not review collaborators.
bEnableReviewPromote Specifies whether to display a Share/Review feature reminder message when users have used those features in the past.
bToggleAdobeReview Specifies whether to remove all UI related to the Document Cloud Review service.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Oct. 2018 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to remove all UI related to the Document Cloud Review service.
Details When set to 0, this preference removes all cloud-based review UI, including the Review tab on the Home screen. Review tools such as the Send for Review tool in the tool's pane invoke legacy review types rather than DC reviews. The Share button also does not lead users to review workflows. Possible values include:
  • 0 (or null): Enable the Document Cloud Review service.
  • 1: Disable the Document Cloud Review service.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # May 2019 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to display a Share/Review feature reminder message when users have used those features in the past.
Details If the user has not used the review service for 30 days AND has previously opened a PDF with review comments, Acrobat displays a tip reminding the user the review/share service is available. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't show a tip.
  • 1: Show tip.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default Enabled, but no locked
Version # March 2023, Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to allow participants in a shared review to @mention people who are not review collaborators.
Details Prior to this release, reviewers could only @mention other reviewers in the review comments. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't allow mentioning non-reviewers.
  • 1: Allow mentioning non-reviewers.

Chrome Integration

For more detail and options pertaining to other browsers as well as the PDFMaker plugin, see the Admin Guide .

Summary table
bAcroSuppressOpenInReader Specifies whether to disable and lock the PDF viewer Chrome extension.
ENABLE_CHROMEEXT Specifies whether to install the Chrome extension for PDF viewing.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Jan. 2017 (DC products)
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to disable and lock the PDF viewer Chrome extension.
Details See also ENABLE_CHROMEEXT . Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Extension is enabled; users can open PDFs in a browser with Acrobat Reader
  • 1: Disable the browser-based PDF viewer. A tooltip says "The Acrobat Reader extension is currently disabled. Please contact your IT admin."
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type string: Binary value > REG_BINARY
Default 0
Version # Feb. 2017 (Reader DC Continuous)
HKLM Path HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Adobe\Acrobat Reader\DC\Installer
Summary Specifies whether to install the Chrome extension for PDF viewing.
Details This preference only works with Reader's Continuous track. For details about the end user experience and associated UI, see https://helpx.adobe.com/acrobat/kb/open-in-acrobat-reader-from-chrome.html. Possible values include:
  • 0: Do not install the Chrome extension.
  • 1: Install the Chrome extension.

Disabling Sign Out

Summary table
bSuppressSignOut Specifies whether the sign-in and sign-out Help menu item should be enabled.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # DC
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether the sign-in and sign-out Help menu item should be enabled.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Don't disable the menu item.
  • 1: Disable the Help menu item.

Windows Explorer Integration

Acrobat product integration with Windows Explorer can only be modified via command line properties or by invoking the installer. Since there is a user interface option to toggle this feature on and off, bDisableThumbnailPreviewHandler provides a method to prevent end users from changing the feature. Before locking the feature, admins can turn it on or off via the command line:

  • During initial install: run ADD_THUMBNAILPREVIEW
  • Post install: run ThumbnailPreviewHandler
For command line property details, see the Admin Guide .

Summary table
bDisableThumbnailPreviewHandler Specifies whether to disable and lock the user interface option that controls Acrobat-generated PDF thumbnail previews in Windows Explorer.
Supported on WindowsSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # DC (10/13/2015)
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to disable and lock the user interface option that controls Acrobat-generated PDF thumbnail previews in Windows Explorer.
Details Oct 13, 2015: 32-bit Windows systems only. 64-bit support was enabled on May 9, 2016. This setting disables the user interface checkbox in the UI. Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable the UI checkbox so users can invoke the installer and enable the thumbnail preview handler.
  • 1: Disable and lock the setting.
GUI mapping Preferences > General > Basic Tools > Enable PDF preview thumbnails in Windows Explorer.

Home Screen and Startup

The preferences here allow IT to disable and lock features such as access to Digital Editions, Acrobat.com, and external ads. Use bToggleFTE to disable the Help > Welcome menu item which invokes the Welcome tour and page.

Summary table
bToggleFTE Specifies whether to enable the First Time Experience (FTE) feature (Welcome tour/page).
bToggleToDoList Specifies whether to show a "to do" list on the Home screen.
bToggleToDoTiles Specifies whether to show To Do Cards in the Recent Tab view
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # Dec. 2018 Continuous
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show To Do Cards in the Recent Tab view
Details To Do cards list potential action items for members of certain workflows (for example, collaborative reviews). When set to 1, To Do cards do not appear in the Recent tab. Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Show cards for unaccepted workflows (reviews, views and sign).
  • 1: Hide cards for unaccepted workflows (reviews, views and sign).
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # DC (10/13/2015)
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to enable the First Time Experience (FTE) feature (Welcome tour/page).
Details The first time experience (FTE) feature displays help content and tips when the application starts and also controls access to the Welcome Tour and Welcome page. FTE is also disabled if any of these preferences under FeatureLockDown\cServices are set: bUpdater , bToggleAdobeDocumentServices , bToggleAdobeSign , bTogglePrefsSync , bToggleWebConnectors . Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Enable FTE features.
  • 1: Disable FTE features.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # May 9, 2016
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show a "to do" list on the Home screen.
Details By default, the Home screen displays a list of action items such as Take a Tour, Export PDF, and so on. For details, see the What's New . Possible values include:
  • 0: Enable the feature.
  • 1: Disable the feature.

Send usage data to Adobe

Adobe collects usage data in order to improve the product. You can disable sending data.

Summary table
bEnableADMAnalytics Specifies whether to collect usage data for some of Acrobat's dialogs.
bToggleShareFeedback Specifies whether to show the Send Feedback icon.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # April 2017
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show the Send Feedback icon.
Details By default, the UI displays a feedback icon so that users can easily send feedback to Adobe with one click. This preference replaces bUsageMeasurement for 12.x and later products. Setting bShowMsgAtLaunch to 0 also hides the icon. Possible values include:
  • 0: Hide the icon.
  • 1: Show the icon.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Feb 9, 2021 Continuous track
HKLM Path Not lockable
Summary Specifies whether to collect usage data for some of Acrobat's dialogs.
Details There's likely no reason to set this preference as the master key bUsageMeasurement disables all data collection, including that for ADM dialogs (like the print dialog). By default, data is collected. Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable data collection ADM dialogs.
  • 1 or null: Enable data collection.

Miscellaneous Features

Summary table
bCommercialPDF Disables and locks a PDF's ability to display commercial ads.
bCrashReporterEnabled Specifies whether to show the crash reporter dialog on application crash (Windows only).
bEnableAutoDockUndockHUD Specifies whether to automatically doc and undock the HUD bar based on the window size.
bMergeMenuBar Specifies whether to merge the application's title bar and menu bar into a single bar.
bMixRecentFilesFeatureLockDown Specifies whether to show shared files in the Recent file list.
bRegisterProduct For 9.x and earlier, disables UI items that allow users to register the product.
bShouldUseScalableCursor Specifies whether to disable the scalable cursor.
bShowAdsAllow Specifies whether ads can be dynamically added to a PDF.
bShowEbookMenu Removes the Digital Editions menu item from the UI.
bToggleBillingIssue Specifies whether to show a Call to Action UI item in the top bar if a billing issue is detected.
bWinCacheSessionHandles Specifies whether to retain cryptographic service provider (CSP) handles when a user authenticates to a digital ID.
dSplitBySizeMaxSize Specifies the file size in MB into which a file may be split.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Feb 9, 2021 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to automatically doc and undock the HUD bar based on the window size.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable automatic behavior.
  • 1: Enable auto docking and undocking.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # May 2020, Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show a Call to Action UI item in the top bar if a billing issue is detected.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Disable the CTA UI.
  • 1: Show the CTA UI.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type digit: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 50
Version # Feb. 2020 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies the file size in MB into which a file may be split.
Details Users or admins can specify any value between 50 and 1024 megabytes. When values outside of that range are used, the default of 50 is enforced. Possible values include:
  • Any value between 50 and 1024.
On Mac, the key is an Array which should have two items: A Key named "Item 0" where Type="Number" with a value of 3, and a key named "Item 1" where Type="Number" with any Value = <User value>
Supported on WindowsSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Feb. 2020 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show the crash reporter dialog on application crash (Windows only).
Details This feature is part of the CrashReporter integration on Windows. The dialog allows users to send crash logs to the CrashReporter team. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't show the dialog.
  • 1: Show the dialog
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Oct 2019: Continuous
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to merge the application's title bar and menu bar into a single bar.
Details Note that "Policies" does not appear in the HKLM path. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't merge the title and menu bars
  • 1: Merge the bars
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Oct. 2018 Continuous
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show shared files in the Recent file list.
Details When enabled, shared files appear in the Recent list when a user successfully shares a file as well as when a recipient accepts an invite to the shared file workflow. This feature makes it easier to track files in live workflows (reviews, shares, signing workflows, and files shared via Send and Track). Possible values include:
  • 0: Add shared files to Recent list.
  • 1: Don't add shared files to Recent list.
Supported on WindowsSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # DC 2018: Aug. 2018; DC 2017: May 2018 (both tracks)
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to disable the scalable cursor.
Details Because Citrix does not provide support for scalable cursors (32-bit cursors with an alpha channel) in legacy graphics mode, scalable cursor performance may be impaired on Citrix. Use this setting to improve performance on Citrix by using a non-scalable cursor. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't use a scalable cursor.
  • 1: Use a scalable cursor.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # 9.0-11.x
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Removes the Digital Editions menu item from the UI.
Details Depending on the product version, the Digital Editions menu item is available on the Help or File menu. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't show the Digital Editions menu item.
  • 1 (or null): Show the Digital Editions menu item.
GUI mapping File|Help > Digital Editions
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # 8.0-11.x
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Disables and locks a PDF's ability to display commercial ads.
Details Possible values include:
  • null: A null value is equal to 0 and allows ad display.
  • 1: Disable and lock a PDFs ability to display ads.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # 8.1+
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cSecurity\cPPKHandler
Summary Specifies whether to retain cryptographic service provider (CSP) handles when a user authenticates to a digital ID.
Details If true, a user does not have to re-authenticate to use the ID unless they log out or the session ends. The impact of this preference will vary based on the CSP in use; however, the setting does not affect the Windows CSPs.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # 6.0-9.x
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary For 9.x and earlier, disables UI items that allow users to register the product.
Details Only exists in HKLM. While this feature is deprecated with 9.0, the Customization Wizard 9 and 10 provides a "Disable Registration" option for disabling the Register Product UI during the installation workflow. It is also possible to use the REGISTRATION_SUPPRESS property on the command line. This preference does not affect the Product Registration menu item under the Help menu. Possible values include:
  • 0: Show the product registration screen.
  • 1: Don't show the product registration screen.
GUI mapping Register Product screen
Not modifiableSupported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # 6.0-9.0
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether ads can be dynamically added to a PDF.
Details Possible values include:
  • null: Null = 0; Allow adding ads to a PDF.
  • 1: Disable and lock the ability to place ads in a PDF.

Network and Protocol Access

Contains preferences which provide permissions for accessing content via the specified protocols. Note that black and white lists may be regularly updated, so for the latest lists you should refer to the registry or plist settings in your installed product.

Summary table
cDefaultLaunchURLPerms A container for subkeys which provide permissions for access to content by protocol.
tFlashContentSchemeWhiteList A list of protocols Flash content can use to access external content.
tSchemePerms A list of protocols a PDF can use to access external content.
tSponsoredContentSchemeWhiteList A list of protocols sponsored content can use to access external content.
Security hardeningSupported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type n/a: Cabs are keys that contain subvalues displayed in the right hand registry panel.
Default See contained keys
Version # 8.0+
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary A container for subkeys which provide permissions for access to content by protocol.
Security hardeningSupported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type text: String value > REG_SZ
Default http|https|ftp|rtmp|rtmpe|rtmpt|rtmpte|rtmps|mailto
Version # 8.0+
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cDefaultLaunchURLPerms
Summary A list of protocols Flash content can use to access external content.
Details Content is subject to other types of security restrictions.
Security hardeningSupported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type text: String value > REG_SZ
Default version:1|shell:3|hcp:3|ms-help:3| ms-its:3|ms-itss:3|its:3| mk:3|mhtml:3|help:3|disk:3| afp:3|disks:3|telnet:3|ssh:3 |acrobat:2|mailto:2|file:1 |rlogin:3
Version # 8.0+
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cDefaultLaunchURLPerms
Summary A list of protocols a PDF can use to access external content.
Details Content may be subject to other types of security restrictions as well. The list is updated periodically, so refer to the settings for you installed product.
Security hardeningSupported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type text: String value > REG_SZ
Default http|https
Version # 8.0+
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cDefaultLaunchURLPerms
Summary A list of protocols sponsored content can use to access external content.
Details Content is subject to other types of security restrictions.

Flash

Adobe Reader and Acrobat stopped shipping with a dedicated Flash player in version 9.5.1, . Since then, rendering Flash content in a PDF requires that a Flash Player already reside on users machine. This strategy simplifies Acrobat and Reader deployments by reducing the number of future required updates should a security issue arise.

Opening a PDF that requires Flash when Flash is not present on the machine results in a dialog prompt to download and install the latest Flash player. To pre-install Flash, go here:

Note: Flash de-coupling is not available in Safari for 9.5.1. Otherwise, Acrobat 9.x products require the Flash Player browser plug-in (Safari and Firefox) version 11.2 or higher. Flash Player 11.2 stopped supporting Windows 2000 and Mac OS lower than 10.6. Therefore, users need at least Windows XP and Mac OS 10.6.x to view Flash content in a PDF.

Summary table
bEnableFlash Specifies whether Flash content should be rendered in a PDF.
Security hardeningSupported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # 9.5.1+
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether Flash content should be rendered in a PDF.
Details Setting a privileged location does not override this preference. Possible values include:
  • 0: Flash content is rendered as an empty, white box and does not play. A yellow message bar also appears at the top of the document stating that "Some features are disabled to avoid potential security risks."
  • 1: Flash plays if there is a system player present. If a player is not found, then the user is prompted to download the latest version.

Actions (online resources)

Specifies whether to show the menu item that opens the online Actions file library.

Summary table
bFindMoreWorkflowsOnline Specifies whether to show the menu item that opens the online Actions file library.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # 11.0+
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show the menu item that opens the online Actions file library.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable the menu item.
  • 1 or null: Don't disable the menu item.
GUI mapping Tools > Action Wizard > Find More Online

Tool Sets (online resources)

Specifies whether to show the menu item that opens the online Actions file library.

Summary table
bFindMoreCustomizationsOnline Specifies whether to show the menu item that opens the online Acrobat Tool Set Exchange.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # 11.0+
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show the menu item that opens the online Acrobat Tool Set Exchange.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable the menu item.
  • 1 or null: Don't disable the menu item.
GUI mapping Customizations > Find More Online

Digital Signature Certification

These options provide additional methods for configuring trust for certified documents. See also TrustManager and Security > Signing.

Summary table
bEnablePVCertificateBasedTrust Specifies whether a document's certification status should appear in the Protected View's DMB
Supported on WindowsSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # 11.0.04+
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether a document's certification status should appear in the Protected View's DMB
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't show the document's certfication status.
  • 1: Do show the document's certfication status.

Shared Reviews

These settings specify Shared Review behavior for pre-DC products. See also Collab.

Summary table
bDisableOnBehalfOfText If false, the string "On behalf of" does not append the author's name in the comment when another person opens the document in a shared-review workflow.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # 9.0+
HKCU Path Workflows
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary If false, the string "On behalf of" does not append the author's name in the comment when another person opens the document in a shared-review workflow.
Details This preference is only used in shared review workflows. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't display the comment author's name.
  • 1: Do display the comment author's name.
GUI mapping Preferences > reviews > Shared Review Options > Show "On Behalf Of" text in comment when user takes ownership of comments in a shared review

PDF Link Blocking

Summary table
bDisablePDFRedirectionActions Specifies whether to block specific PDF actions (listed below) which result in opening a link.
Security hardeningSupported on WindowsSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # DC products May 14, 2018+
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to block specific PDF actions (listed below) which result in opening a link.
Details This preference does not block regular web links. Enabling this feature blocks a PDF actions that open links, including GoToE, GoToR, Launch, Thread, Import Data, Export Form Data, Submit Form, and Reset Form. Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Don't block these opening links.
  • 1: Block links.

Upsell

By default, the app provides information in various locations about other tools, subscriptions, mobile apps, and Acrobat (for Reader users). These messages educuate users about additional features and products. Admins can disable most of these messages via the preferences below. Note : See also /Workflows/cServices/ : bAcrobatAppInstalled and bScanAppInstalled .

Summary table
bAcroSuppressUpsell For 12.x and later products, disables messages which encourage the user to upgrade the product.
bEnableTrialistLaunchCard Specifies whether to prompt Acrobat trial users to complete the purchase.
bLimitPromptsFeatureKey Specifies whether to limit the number of prompts a user will see in a 24 hour period.
bMerchandizingEnabled Specifies whether to show the Express Templates options in Acrobat's Create PDF UI.
bPurchaseAcro For legacy products, disables the Help > Purchase Acrobat menu item in Adobe Reader.
bReaderRetentionExperiment Specifies whether to prompt Acrobat subscribers using Reader to download Acrobat.
bShowRhpToolSearch Specifies whether to show "for purchase" tools when searching for tools in Reader.
bToggleDCAppCenter Specifies whether to show the UI that helps users find and download additional apps.
bToggleSophiaWebInfra Summary: Specifies whether to show users messages which promote (Trials, Acrobat, PDF Pack etc.)
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version #
HKLM Path FeaturelockDown
Summary Specifies whether to limit the number of prompts a user will see in a 24 hour period.
Details Prompts include items like tips, calls-to-action, and feature walk throughs. These are not necessarily upsell items. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't restrict informational prompts.
  • 1: Limit prompts to 1 per day and 3 per week.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Oct. 2018 both tracks
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show the UI that helps users find and download additional apps.
Details By default, the Home view displays a provides a "get apps" banner and/or a link to the App Center where users can find and download additional apps (such as mobile apps). This preference removes both the banner and the App Center. Possible values include:
  • 0 (or null): Show the App Center UI.
  • 1: Don't show the App Center UI.
Not modifiableSupported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # May 2019 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show "for purchase" tools when searching for tools in Reader.
Details When enabled, searching for tools in Reader shows all possible tool subscriptions. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't show tool subscriptions.
  • 1: Show tools which can be purchased.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # DC
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary For 12.x and later products, disables messages which encourage the user to upgrade the product.
Details Products that don't provide the full set of features by default provide the user the opportunity to upgrade. For example, Reader users can purchase additional tools and features, and Acrobat Standard users can upgrade to Acrobat Professional. Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Don't disable upsell.
  • 1: Disable upsell.
For 12.x and later products, Upsell could not be disabled for users with a volume license. This bug was fixed in the July 2015 update.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # 8.0-11.x
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary For legacy products, disables the Help > Purchase Acrobat menu item in Adobe Reader.
Details In an Adobe Reader installation, the Purchase Acrobat menu item is available on the Help menu. This key disables that option. Possible values include:
  • 0 (or null): Do remove the Purchase Acrobat menu item.
  • 1: Don't remove the Purchase Acrobat menu item.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # May 2019 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to prompt Acrobat subscribers using Reader to download Acrobat.
Details When enabled, download Acrobat prompts appear in Reader workflows where the user might benefit from Acrobat (purchased but not yet downloaded). Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable "download Acrobat" prompts in Reader.
  • 1: Enable download prompts.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # Oct 2019: Continuous
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to prompt Acrobat trial users to complete the purchase.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable the purchase Acrobat prompt.
  • 1: Don't disable the prompt.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # Oct 2019: both tracks
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary Summary: Specifies whether to show users messages which promote (Trials, Acrobat, PDF Pack etc.)
Details Subscription users may be prompted to download Acrobat. Theoretically, this preference does not interact with any other upsell preferences. Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Disable campaigns in Reader's right-hand pane bottom banner
  • 1: Enable campaigns
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default Enabled but not locked
Version # June 2023, Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show the Express Templates options in Acrobat's Create PDF UI.
Details This feature is an experiment not shown to all users. Possible values include:
  • 0: Do not show the templates
  • 1: Show the templates

PDF Ownership

These preferences provide options for controlling whether Acrobat or Reader is the default PDF viewer.

Summary table
bDisablePDFHandlerSwitching Disables the ability to change the specified default handler (PDF viewer).
bEnableAcrobatPromptForDocOpen Specifies whether to prompt users to use Acrobat when both Reader and Acrobat are installed.
bHasAcrobatConsent Specifies whether the Reader process should automatically open Acrobat for the current file.
bTogglePDFOwnershipToasts Specifies whether to show a notification on machine startup that allows the user to make Acrobat the default PDF viewer.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # Oct 2019: Continuous
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether the Reader process should automatically open Acrobat for the current file.
Details PDF ownership does not change. Reader will continue as the default PDF viewer on this machine. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't automatically use Acrobat.
  • 1: Use Acrobat
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default See details.
Version # 10.0-DC
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Disables the ability to change the specified default handler (PDF viewer).
Details When Reader and Acrobat are installed on the same machine or earlier versions of Acrobat already exist, you can choose which viewer is the default for PDF files. While Acrobat is the more capable, feature rich application, Reader X has a built in Protected Mode which is more secure (For security details, see the Application Security Guide).

This feature is a Adobe PDF handler-only feature: It does not enable switching to and from non-Adobe products and may or may not change the handling of other Acrobat supported formats; for example, it changes FDF and XDP, but not XFA or PDX.

Administrators interested in security may want to make Reader the default PDF viewer. Version X products will be able to switch between any product type and version back to 9.x.

For more information, see the PDF Ownership knowledge base article . Note that UI configuration does not set any key in HKCU. Instead, changing the setting via the UI invokes the installer which sets the key in HKLM. The default application behavior varies depending on what is installed. A value of 1 disables the user's ability to change the default handler. Possible values include:
  • 0 (or null): Allow the user to change the default viewer.
  • 1: Don't allow the user to change the default viewer.
GUI mapping Edit > Preferences > General > Select Default PDF Handler
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # May 2019 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to prompt users to use Acrobat when both Reader and Acrobat are installed.
Details When Acrobat and Reader are both present, opening a file in Reader prompts the user to switch to Acrobat as well as make Acrobat the default PDF viewer. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't prompt to use Acrobat.
  • 1: Prompt to use Acrobat.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # May 2019 Continuous track
HKLM Path FeatureLockDown\cServices
Summary Specifies whether to show a notification on machine startup that allows the user to make Acrobat the default PDF viewer.
Details When enabled and both Acrobat and Reader are installed, the user can click on the notification to change the default PDF viewer. Possible values include:
  • 0: Show PDF ownership notification on application startup.
  • 1: Don't ownership notification.

Context menus, tips, tools

Summary table
bEnableContextualTips Controls whether to automatically display help tips based on the current context.
bEnableContextualToolbar Specifies whether to show the context toolbar (popup) when selecting a PDF object.
bEnableExtractPageRange Specifies whether to show the page range UI in the Extract Page dialog.
bEnableRCMNewPOPUp Specifies whether to disable the new context menu and use the legacy version.
bOrganizePagesFromThumbnails Specifies whether to show shortcut UI for the Organize tool from thumbnails.
bUIDensityAutoDetectionEnabled Specifies whether to disable the auto detection logic and bezel for changing Acrobat's display size.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Sept. 14, 2021 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show the page range UI in the Extract Page dialog.
Details
  • 0: Don't show the page range UI.
  • 1: Show the page range UI.
GUI mapping Extract Pages dialog will show UI for extracting a page range when enabled.
Supported on WindowsSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Sept. 14, 2021 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to disable the auto detection logic and bezel for changing Acrobat's display size.
Details By default, the UI is enabled so that a user may change the display size based on device screen size, resolution, and monitor scaling.
  • 0: Disable the UI.
  • 1: Show the UI.
GUI mapping None
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 1
Version # Sept 14, 2021 all tracks
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to disable the new context menu and use the legacy version.
Details A new right-click context menu displays icons and additional menu options.
  • 0: Disable the new context menu.
  • 1: Enable the new menu.
GUI mapping Right click menu.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # May 2019 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Controls whether to automatically display help tips based on the current context.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Disable contextual tips.
  • 1: Enable tips.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default
Version # May 2019 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show the context toolbar (popup) when selecting a PDF object.
Details When enabled, a popup, floating toolbar appears when a user interacts with a PDF. For example, selecting text displays text markup tools. Selecting an image displays sticky note and editing tools. Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't show context toolbars.
  • 1: Show toolbars.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default 0
Version # May 2019 Continuous track
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show shortcut UI for the Organize tool from thumbnails.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0: Don't show Organize Pages tool shortcut from thumbnails
  • 1: Show the Organize Pages tool shortcut

Search

Cloud-powered search displays search suggestions related to search keywords. Searching for a word returns both matches for the word as well as related words and synonyms. When enabled, Acrobat sends document data to Adobe's cloud so that it can provide search suggestions. Smart suggestions appear under the "Suggestions" of the auto-complete list in the Find Tool. While data is sent to the cloud, Adobe's Cloud does not store a copy of the PDF, and all communications are encrypted.

Summary table
bEnableAutoCompleteExactMatchLoader Specifies whether to show a "Working on it" message when using the cloud-based search service.
bEnableAutoCompleteNoExactMatchHeader Specifies whether to show a "No exact match" message when using the cloud-based search service.
bEnableAutoCompleteNoInternetConnectionHeader Specifies whether to show a "Requires internet connection" message when using the cloud-based search service.
bEnableCloudPoweredSearch Specifies whether to enable the cloud-based search service in the Find Tool.
bEnableCloudPoweredSearchTokenCaching Specifies whether to cache locally cloud-based search service suggestions.
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # May 2019 Continuous track (English only)
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to enable the cloud-based search service in the Find Tool.
Details Interacts with bEnableCloudPoweredSearchTokenCaching . Data sent to the cloud is not stored and is encrypted. Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Don't enable the cloud search service
  • 1: Enable the cloud search service
GUI mapping Settings icon in the Find box > Cloud-powered search
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # May 2019 Continuous track (English only)
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to cache locally cloud-based search service suggestions.
Details Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Don't cache cloud search service suggestions
  • 1: Cache suggestions
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # May 2019 Continuous track (English only)
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show a "Requires internet connection" message when using the cloud-based search service.
Details The message appears in the Suggestions section of the Find tool's autocomplete list. Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Don't show the message
  • 1: Show the message
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # May 2019 Continuous track (English only)
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show a "No exact match" message when using the cloud-based search service.
Details The message appears in the Suggestions section of the Find tool's autocomplete list. Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Don't show the message
  • 1: Show the message
Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
Default null
Version # May 2019 Continuous track (English only)
HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
Summary Specifies whether to show a "Working on it" message when using the cloud-based search service.
Details The message appears in the Suggestions section of the Find tool's autocomplete list. Possible values include:
  • 0 or null: Don't show the message
  • 1: Show the message

Create PDF

Since Reader users don't have access to Create PDF tools, this feature provides easy access to the feature for workflows intended to convert web content to PDF. There are limits to how many times the feature may be used without a subscription or Acrobat installed. The feature supports converting Word, PPT, JPG, Excel, and HTML content to PDF via UI provided by Adobe's Chrome extension. Since this feature relies on a service, it requires that services are enabled.

When enabled, users invoke the workflow in two ways. During a web search of a relevant phrase such as "Word to PDF", the Acrobat browser extension displays a dialog that allows the user to either drag and drop a file to the dialog or select a file via a browse button. Alternatively, a user can click the Adobe Acrobat Chrome extension icon to show the context menu containing a Convert to PDF menu item. Selecting that menu item results in a dialog similar to the previous method.

Note that this feature is automatically disabled when the following preferences are set:

  • HKLM/.../FeatureLockDown/cServices/bUpdater=0
  • HKLM/.../FeatureLockDown/cServices/bToggleAdobeDocumentServices=1
  • Summary table
    bEnableFrictionlessInChromeExtn Specifies whether to show Reader users the online Create PDF service option.
    bGlobalBarMenuFeatureKey Specifies whether to show the Create Split Menu under Create a PDF menu item.
    Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Adobe Reader
    Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
    Default null
    Version # May, 2020 Continous track (Win and Mac), Classic track 2017 and 2020 (Win only)
    HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
    Summary Specifies whether to show Reader users the online Create PDF service option.
    Details Possible values include:
    • 0 or null: Don't show the Create PDF UI
    • 1: Show the convert web content to PDF UI
    Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
    Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
    Default 0
    Version # June 2023, Continuous and Classic track
    HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown\cServices
    Summary Specifies whether to show the Create Split Menu under Create a PDF menu item.
    Details Possible values include:
    • 0: Don't show the Create Split menu.
    • 1: Show the Create Split menu.

    Accessibility Auto Tagging

    Summary table
    bCloudATFeatureEnable Specifies whether to show the new auto tagging experience or revert to the old experience.
    Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
    Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
    Default
    Version # June 2023, Continuous track
    HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
    Summary Specifies whether to show the new auto tagging experience or revert to the old experience.
    Details Possible values include:
    • 0: Disable the new auto tagging feature in the accessility UI.
    • 1: Enable the new auto tagging feature in the accessility UI.

    Signing

    Summary table
    bShowSignMenu Specifies whether to show the Sign menu in Acrobat's top level menu bar.
    Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by Acrobat
    Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
    Default null
    Version # May 2020, Continuous track
    HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\
    Summary Specifies whether to show the Sign menu in Acrobat's top level menu bar.
    Details Possible values include:
    • 0 or null: Disable the Sign menu item.
    • 1: Enable the menu item.

    Protected Mode

    These preferences are only relevant when Protected Mode is enabled. For more detail, see the Application Security Guide and the preferences under Privileged .

    Summary table
    cJSEditor Whitelists 3rd party JS editors when Protected Mode is enabled.
    cProtectedModeConfigFiles Provides a method for specifying file extensions exempt from Protected Mode restrictions.
    Supported on WindowsSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
    Data type text: String value > REG_SZ
    Default none
    Version # June, 2020
    HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\
    Summary Provides a method for specifying file extensions exempt from Protected Mode restrictions.
    Details Possible values include: Any vendor name with a data value that is the name of the .txt policy configuration file which resides in the same directory as the product .exe file.
    Supported on WindowsSupported by Acrobat
    Data type
    Default null
    Version # Continuous track Aug, 2020
    HKLM Path FeatureLockDown
    Summary Whitelists 3rd party JS editors when Protected Mode is enabled.
    Details by default, Acrobat only supports Notepad and Notepad++ in sandboxed mode. This preference supports adding the JS editor of your choice. Possible values include:
      Any path such as C:\Program Files\(your app).exe

    Combine PDFs

    Summary table
    bRCMCombineFeatureKey Specifies whether to display the Combine Files item in a document's right-click context menu.
    Supported on WindowsSupported on MacSupported by AcrobatSupported by Adobe Reader
    Data type boolean: DWORD value > REG_DWORD
    Default Enabled but not locked
    Version # June 2023, Continuous track
    HKLM Path HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Adobe\(product name)\(version)\FeatureLockDown
    Summary Specifies whether to display the Combine Files item in a document's right-click context menu.
    Details This preference only applies to machines that display the Modern Viewer (a phased rollout over 2023). When the Modern Viewer is disabled, admins can toggle the Combine Files UI off/on. Possible values include:
    • 0: Don't show the Combine Files UI.
    • 1: Do show the Combine Files UI.