Securing Your Computer 73Use the User Accounts option in the Control Panel in the Microsoft Windowsoperating system to create user accounts or to change passwords. Once youcreate a user password, you must enter it each time you turn on or unlockyour computer. If a valid password is not entered within two minutes, thecomputer returns to its previous operating state.For more information, see your Windows documentation.About PasswordsNOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer orhard drive. However, they are not always reliable. If you require more security,obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as smart cards, data encryptionprograms, or PC Cards with encryption features.NOTE: Passwords are disabled when you receive your computer.The following table identifies types and features of passwords available onyour computer.If you forget a password, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" on page 269).For your protection, Dell support will require verification of your identity toensure that only an authorized person can use the computer.Type of Password FeaturesPrimary (system)password• Protects your computer from unauthorized accessAdministrator password • Gives system administrators or service techniciansaccess to computers for repair or reconfiguration• Restricts access to System Setup in the same way aprimary password restricts access to the computer• Can be used instead of the primary passwordHard drive password • Helps protect your hard drive or external hard drive (ifused) from unauthorized accessNOTE: Some hard drives do not support hard drivepasswords.
