Dell 1950 Laptop User Manual


 
Using the System Setup Program 39
When a system password is assigned, the setting shown for the System Password option is Enabled. If the
setting shown for the Password Status is Unlocked, you can change the system password. If the Password
Status option is Locked, you cannot change the system password. When the system password feature is
disabled by a jumper setting, the system password is Disabled, and you cannot change or enter a new system
password.
When a system password is not assigned and the password jumper on the system board is in the enabled
(default) position, the setting shown for the System Password option is Not Enabled and the Password
Status field is Unlocked. To assign a system password:
1
Verify that the
Password Status
option is set to
Unlocked
.
2
Highlight the
System Password
option and press <Enter>.
3
Type your new system password.
You can use up to 32 characters in your password.
As you press each character key (or the spacebar for a blank space), a placeholder appears in the field.
The password assignment is not case-sensitive. However, certain key combinations are not valid. To erase
a character when entering your password, press <Backspace> or the left-arrow key.
NOTE: To escape from the field without assigning a system password, press <Enter> to move to another
field, or press <Esc> at any time prior to completing step 5.
4
Press <Enter>.
5
To confirm your password, type it a second time and press <Enter>.
The setting shown for the
System Password
changes to
Enabled
. Exit the System Setup program and
begin using your system.
6
Either reboot your system now for your password protection to take effect or continue working.
NOTE: Password protection does not take effect until you reboot the system.
Using Your System Password to Secure Your System
NOTE: If you have assigned a setup password (see "Using the Setup Password" on page 40"), the system accepts
your setup password as an alternate system password.
When the Password Status option is set to Unlocked, you have the option to leave the password security
enabled or to disable the password security.
To leave the password security enabled:
1
Turn on or reboot your system by pressing <Ctrl><Alt><Del>.
2
Type your password and press <Enter>.
To disable the password security:
1
Turn on or reboot your system by pressing <Ctrl><Alt><Del>.
2
Type your password and press <Ctrl><Enter>.