user manual

Table Of Contents

Password Security

The power-on password prevents unauthorized use of the computer by requiring entry of a password

to access applications or data each time the computer is turned on or restarted. The setup password

specifically prevents unauthorized access to Computer Setup, and can also be used as an override to

the power-on password. That is, when prompted for the power-on password, entering the setup

password instead will allow access to the computer.

A network-wide setup password can be established to enable the system administrator to log in to all

network systems to perform maintenance without having to know the power-on password, even if one

has been established.

NOTE: System Software Manager (SSM) can be used to create and manage BIOS passwords from

within the Windows operating system. For more information see the SSM User’s Guide at

http://www.hp.com/go/ssm.

NOTE: HP Client Management Interface (HP CMI) provides access to BIOS setting management

including BIOS passwords from within the Windows operating system. For more information see the HP

Client Management Interface Technical Whitepaper at

http://www.hp.com/go/hpcmi.

Establishing a Setup Password Using Computer Setup

If the system is equipped with an embedded security device, refer to the HP ProtectTools Security

Manager Guide at

http://www.hp.com. Establishing a setup password through Computer Setup prevents

reconfiguration of the computer (use of the Computer Setup (F10) utility) until the password is entered.

1. Turn on or restart the computer. If you are in Windows, click Start > Shut Down > Restart.

2. As soon as the computer is turned on, press F10 before the computer boots to the operating system

to enter Computer Setup. Press Enter to bypass the title screen, if necessary.

NOTE: If you do not press F10 at the appropriate time, you must restart the computer and again

press F10 before the computer boots to the operating system to access the utility.

3. Select Security, then select Setup Password and follow the instructions on the screen.

4. Before exiting, click File > Save Changes and Exit.

Establishing a Power-On Password Using Computer Setup

Establishing a power-on password through Computer Setup prevents access to the computer when

power is turned on, unless the password is entered. When a power-on password is set, Computer Setup

presents Password Options under the Security menu. Password options include Password Prompt

on Warm Boot. When Password Prompt on Warm Boot is enabled, the password must also be

entered each time the computer is rebooted.