I Hate This Key

I Hate This Key is an ultra-simplistic software application that enables users to deactivate the Windows logo key. It comes in handy when working with other applications or playing video games in full screen mode, since we all know that accidentally pressing the Windwows logo key almost always exits the full screen mode, thus interrupting our regular activity.
The program does not come packed with complicated features or configuration parameters, so it can be handled by anyone with ease, even users with little or no experience in software utilities.

Quick setup and accessibility via the system tray area

The installation procedure is a fast and easy job which does need special attention, since it sports familiar and uncomplicated settings. At startup, I Hate This Key creates an icon in the taskbar notifications area to quickly access it from any environment you are working in.

Enable and disable the Windows logo key

So, you can bring up the settings panel and ask the tool to become active by always blocking the Windows logo key, which automatically disables access to the Start Menu from the keyboard until further action is taken to lift this restriction. The program automatically runs at system startup by default, but this option can be disabled from the last pane in the settings area.

The limitations of the free edition

There are no other notable options available in the free version of I Hate This Key. Unfortunately, its interface shows a lot of options for personalizing its behavior, such as support for hotkeys. However, these settings can only be used by upgrading to a paid version of I Hate This Key, which makes the free edition misleading to users, to say the least.

Evaluation and conclusion

The app does not put a strain on computer performance, since it runs on low CPU and RAM. It immediately applies the new changes and did not hang, crash or pop up error messages in our tests. However, considering the previously mentioned downsides of the free version, I Hate This Key does not leave room for customization, although this is the first impression it gives.