User Guide - Windows 7

You may nd it helpful to use the same password for a Setup Utility (BIOS) feature and for a Windows security
feature.
Use the following tips for creating and saving passwords:
●
To reduce the risk of being locked out of the computer, record each password and store it in a secure
place away from the computer. Do not store passwords in a le on the computer.
●
When creating passwords, follow requirements set by the program.
●
Change your passwords at least every three months.
●
An ideal password is long and has letters, punctuation, symbols, and numbers.
●
Before you send your computer for service, back up your les, delete condential les, and then remove
all password settings.
For additional information about Windows passwords, such as screen-saver passwords, select Start > Help
and Support.
Setting Windows passwords
Password Function
User password Protects access to a Windows user account.
Administrator password Protects administrator-level access to computer contents.
NOTE: This password cannot be used to access Setup Utility
(BIOS) contents.
Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords
Password Function
Administrator password
●
Must be entered each time you access Setup Utility (BIOS).
●
If you forget your administrator password, you cannot
access Setup Utility (BIOS).
NOTE: The administrator password can be used in place of the
power-on password.
NOTE: Your administrator password is not interchangeable with
an administrator password set in Windows, nor is it displayed as it
is set, entered, changed, or deleted.
NOTE: If you enter the power-on password at the rst password
check, you must enter the administrator password to access
Setup Utility (BIOS).
Power-on password
●
Must be entered each time you turn on or restart the
computer, or exit Hibernation.
●
If you forget your power-on password, you cannot turn on or
restart the computer, or exit Hibernation.
NOTE: The administrator password can be used in place of the
power-on password.
NOTE: A power-on password is not displayed as it is set,
entered, changed, or deleted.
52 Chapter 9 Securing your computer and information