posted on November 16, 2000 03:24:09 PM
I have a computer at home with Microsoft Outlook and Windows 98. Is there a way I can "lock" the computer from anyone else using it (aside from taking the power cord with me to work)?
posted on November 16, 2000 03:36:23 PM
From the start button, go to settings, then there click Control Panel, and inside there is a place for all passwords. There is a place to make a password for Windows 98
Do they still have keys on the CPU's? I remember they used to have them on the older ones.
Just be aware that anyone who is fairly computer savvy can defeat the Windows password in about 45 seconds. It will prevent access by a computer neophyte however. It all depends on who you're trying to keep from accessing your computer whether this will work for you or not.
[ edited by abingdoncomputers on Nov 16, 2000 09:38 PM ]
posted on November 17, 2000 04:54:07 AM
As stated, the WIN98 password is easy to bypass. The most secure is the startup system in the computer bios. When the computer starts, you should see something like "hit del to enter setup". In setup you can set a user and setup password that will not allow the machine to boot unless the password is entered. The machine has to be opened to defeat this password. The best question was who do you want to keep out. Any password can be bypassed on a PC given time and or knowledge. I know one person who has a system password set, and the cpu kept in a locked metal cabinet.
posted on November 17, 2000 05:01:17 AM
scrabblegod is correct. A BIOS password is much more secure against access by most users than the Windows password if your computer supports it (and most do these days). If you do set a BIOS start-up password, DO NOT FORGET IT. If you do, unless you feel comfortable fiddling with the guts of your PC while talking to tech support on the phone, you will have to take it to a computer shop and have them reset the BIOS before your PC will boot up.
