BIOS
All PCs come with a piece of software called the BIOS (Basic
Input/Output System), which sets the boot process for the computer. Most BIOS’
today offer a security option that lets the user set a password. Without
entering the password, the computer cannot boot. The drawback, of course, is
that on a shared computer, all users who access the PC need to have the
password. We haven’t seen a BIOS that permits separate, multiple-user
passwords. Therefore options include either a single user knows the password and
is “on call” anytime anyone wants to access the computer or all of the users
know the password.
To enable the password through the BIOS, access it at system startup by pressing
a specific key or combination of keys. Refer to the documentation for your PC
for instructions, but typically, you’ll see something similar to Press F1 For
Configuration/Setup. The System Security option is usually listed on the first
screen. Scroll down until you find it. Press ENTER, and in the System Security
box, use your Down-arrow key to select Power-On Password. You’ll be prompted
to enter the new password twice. If you already have a password, you can change
it or delete it here, too. After you enter you new password, save your changes
and press ESC to exit back to the first screen.
You can bypass the BIOS by opening the case of your computer, locating the CMOS
battery on the motherboard, and removing it for about 60 seconds; replace the
battery and reboot. This will erase all old BIOS settings, including passwords.
If the above options do not provide enough security for you, download Access manager for Windows. Access manager provides much more security than standard ways in Windows. |