HP A6720f Getting Started Guide - Page 23

Using passwords A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure the computer information. Several types of passwords can be set, depending on how you want to control access to your information. Passwords can be set in the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system on the computer. CAUTION: To avoid being locked out of the computer, record each password you set. Because passwords are not displayed as they are set, changed, or deleted, it is essential to record each password immediately and store it in a secure place. Use the following list as a basic guide when choosing a password: Choose a password that is easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess. Choose a long password (minimum of six characters). Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Don't use personal information that others can easily figure out, such as your birthday, child's name, or phone number. Don't write down passwords unless you store them in a secure place away from the computer. Do not store passwords in a file on the computer. You can use the same password for more than one Windows Vista security feature. A password can have any combination of up to eight letters and numbers, and it is not case sensitive. A password must be set and entered with the same keys. For example, if you set the password with number keys on the keyboard, the password is not recognized if you subsequently try to enter it with the embedded numeric keypad. NOTE: Select models include a separate numeric keypad, which functions exactly like the keyboard number keys, except in the case of passwords. A password set in Windows Vista must be entered at a Windows Vista prompt. The following table lists the Windows Vista passwords and describes their functions. For information on how to set passwords, see "Using passwords." For additional information on Windows Vista passwords, such as screen saver passwords, type passwords into the Search Help box in the Help and Support Center. Password Windows Vista Administrator password Windows Vista User password Function Protects administrator-level access to computer contents. Protects access to a Windows Vista user account and the computer contents. It must be entered when you resume from Sleep or Away mode. CAUTION: If you forget the Administrator password, you cannot access Setup Utility. Turning On the Computer for the First Time 13