Back to Contents PageSecuring Your ComputerDell™ Inspiron™ 1521 Owner's ManualSecurity Cable LockPasswordsIf Your Computer Is Lost or StolenSecurity Cable LockA security cable lock is a commercially available antitheft device. To use the lock, attach it to the security cable slot on your Dell computer. For more information,see the instructions included with the device.PasswordsPasswords prevent unauthorized access to your computer. When you first start your computer, you must assign a primary password at the prompt. If you donot enter a password within 2 minutes, the computer returns to its previous operating state.When using passwords, observe the following guidelines:l Choose a password that you can remember, but not one that is easy to guess. For example, do not use the names of family members or pets forpasswords.l It is recommended that you do not write down your password. If you do write it down, however, ensure that the password is stored in a securelocation.l Do not share your password with other people.l Ensure that people are not watching you when you type your password.Use the User Accounts option in the Control Panel in the Microsoft® Windows® operating system to create user accounts or to change passwords. Once youcreate a user password, you must enter it each time you turn on or unlock your computer. If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, the computerreturns to its previous operating state. For more information, see your Windows documentation.If you forget any of your passwords, contact Dell (see Contacting Dell). For your protection, Dell technical support staff will ask you for proof of your identity toensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolenl Call a law enforcement agency to report the lost or stolen computer. Include the Service Tag in your description of the computer. Ask that a casenumber be assigned and write down the number, along with the name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency. If possible, obtainthe name of the investigating officer.NOTE: Your computer does not ship with a security cable lock.NOTICE: Before you buy an antitheft device, ensure that it will work with the security cable slot on your computer.NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer or hard drive. However, they are not foolproof. If you require moresecurity, obtain and use additional forms of protection such as data encryption programs.NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcement agency in that area. If you do not know, call a law enforcementagency where you live.