Most home personal computers have more than one person using them. Unless each user has their own account, everyone who uses the computer has access to everyone’s files. Another risk is the fact that all users can add/delete programs and change system settings that may affect the way the computer runs.

It is a good idea to have separate accounts for all users just for the separation of personal files. User accounts can be denied access to other user accounts and their files and settings.

The second good reason to set up separate accounts is to limit what changes can be made to the system. This is a great feature especially if kids are using the computer. Keep the kids from “accidentally” changing system settings can save a lot of heartache. Also, Kids like to download “free” stuff and load it on the system which invites spyware and other malicious software.

The answer this problem is to set up limited user accounts for those who use your computer. Here are the steps to create limited accounts in Windows XP.

1. Open the Control Panel.

2. Open User Accounts.

3. Select/click Create a new account.

4. Ensure the Limited option is selected, then click Create Account.

5. Give the account a name, usually the name of the person who will use this profile.

6. Now the new account is created and it can be seen with the other accounts.

7. Now we need to make sure that users will be forced to use their own account. Select/click Change the way users log on of off.

8. Ensure that the Use the Welcome screen is selected. As an option, you can use Fast Switching which is a nice feature.

9. Now, on the User Accounts window, go to your account and double click it. Next click Create a password.

10. Create your pass by entering it twice. Enter a hint and then click Create Password.

11. Back at the User Accounts window, you can see that your account is password protected. Repeat the steps to password protect any other account you want protected.

12. Remember that you need to log off when you are finished with the computer. The next user will have to log into their account. You can also set your screen saver to display the Welcome screen when resuming use of the computer.

Setting up accounts for all the users on your computer protects each user’s files and settings. You also protect your system from users changing the system settings on your computer and preventing the addition and deletion of programs.

 Print This Post