Windows NT4/2K/XP password procedure
Instructions for:
- changing your login password
- locking your workstation
- activating "autolock" (by using a screensaver password)
- changing your password every now and again is good computing hygiene
- locking your workstation prevents anyone else from using it (while you're at lunch, for example)
- autolock means you don't need to remember to lock manually - like keylock on a mobile phone
Each of these procedures uses the SAME password, your login password, which keeps things simple.
Note: these procedures are for the Windows NT 4 family only. Attempting to use these instructions on Windows 98 or Windows 95 will cause the 'close program' dialog box to appear, at which point you should click Cancel.
To change your login password:
- login
- press Ctrl-Alt-Del
- click Change Password..
- enter old (current) login password
- enter new login password
- confirm new login password
- click OK
To lock your workstation (manually):
- login
- press Ctrl-Alt-Del
- click Lock Workstation..
- to unlock, enter login password
To engage "autolock" (screensaver password):
- login
- click Start.. Settings.. Control Panel.. Display.. Screensaver
- select a screensaver, if none selected
- check the box [ ] password protected (only available if a screensaver is selected)
- click OK
- to unlock, enter login password
Suggested actions:
- change your password
- engage autolock
See also our selection of password strategies.