Hi guys, I'll start off by saying sorry if this is the wrong place to post this, since it doesn't matter if it's answered for Windows or Linux. Ok, what I'm trying to do is set up a computer to be used for somewhat of a cyber cafe, that's the best term I can think of. The computer is going to be in a public place and people will pay with credit card to use it. What I need is primarily two things:

1. Block all programs except for things like Firefox and OpenOffice, so that whoever is using it can't mess things up.

2. This is the tricky one, which I've been having trouble even finding Windows software for it. Basically what needs to happen (I've seen this implemented at Staples) is that the customer swipes their credit card on a box connected to the computer, and the computer unlocks for them to use. It shows a timer in the corner of the screen, and it charges however much per minute. Then, when the customer is finished, they click a button, and the receipt is printed, and the computer relocks.

Does anyone know of any software to use for this? It really doesn't matter whether it's for Linux or Windows, mainly just whichever's cheaper.

What you need is commonly called "kiosk mode."

If you do a search for "kiosk mode linux," will will find a number of links for setting it up with various distributions and desktops.

In Windows, I think you accomplish such limits by using the Guest account: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/w...-guest-account

Hmm... That seems like it could work for part one. The main thing, though is implementing the credit card payment.

Smart card reader and likely custom software for part 2

Well, thanks for the suggestions, but as of now, this isn't going to work due to lack of working software. Thanks anyway, guys.