Enable CD Ripping/Burning for Restricted Users

Windows 2000/XP does not allow CD Ripping/Burning for restricted users. This is a deliberate security decision by Microsoft, but many restricted users desire the ability to perform these functions.

Windows 2000
The only solution is to log on as an Administrator user.

Windows XP
You can change the group policy settings to allow this. You must log on as an Administrator user to change this setting.

  1. Run gpedit.msc (via Start menu, Run..)
  2. Select the following:
    Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options
  3. Enable the option 'Devices: Restrict CD-Rom access to locally logged-on user only.'
You should now reboot your PC. Restricted users can now rip/burn CDs.