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Using passwords
A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure your computer information and to
protect online transactions. Several types of passwords can be set. For example, when you set up
your computer for the first time, you were asked to create a user password to secure your computer.
Additional passwords can be set in Windows or in the HP Setup Utility (BIOS) that is preinstalled on
your computer.
You may find 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 file on the computer.
●
When creating passwords, follow requirements set by the program.
●
Change your passwords at least every three months.
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An ideal password is long and has letters, punctuation, symbols, and numbers.
●
Before you send your computer for service, back up your files, delete confidential files, and then
remove all password settings.
For additional information about Windows passwords, such as screen-saver passwords, from the
Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.
Setting Windows passwords
Password Function
User password Protects access to a Windows user account. You may also
set up your computer to require the user password to exit
Sleep. See
Setting password protection on wakeup
on page 41 for more information.
Administrator password Protects administrator-level access to computer contents.
NOTE: This password cannot be used to access Setup
Utility (BIOS) contents.
68 Chapter 9 Securing your computer and information