Using Passwords - HP ProBook 4436s Reference Manual

Computer risk
Unauthorized removal of the computer
*Computer Setup is a preinstalled, ROM-based utility that can be used even when the operating system is not working or will
not load. You can use either a pointing device (TouchPad, pointing stick, or USB mouse) or the keyboard to navigate and
make selections in Computer Setup.

Using passwords

A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure your 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 Windows or in the non-Windows Computer Setup utility that is preinstalled
on the computer.
●
Setup and DriveLock passwords are set in Computer Setup and are managed by the system
BIOS.
●
The embedded security password, which is an HP ProtectTools Security Manager password,
can be enabled in Computer Setup to provide BIOS password protection in addition to its normal
HP ProtectTools functions. The embedded security password is used with the optional
embedded security chip.
●
Windows passwords are set only in the Windows operating system.
●
If you forget the BIOS administrator password set in Computer Setup, you can use HP SpareKey
to access the utility.
●
If you forget both the DriveLock user password and the DriveLock master password set in
Computer Setup, the hard drive that is protected by the passwords is permanently locked and
can no longer be used.
You can use the same password for a Computer Setup feature and for a Windows security feature.
You can also use the same password for more than one Computer Setup feature.
Use the following tips for creating and saving passwords:
●
When creating passwords, follow requirements set by the program.
●
Write down your passwords and store them in a secure place away from the computer.
●
Do not store passwords in a file on the computer.
The following tables list commonly used Windows and BIOS administrator passwords and describe
their functions.
Security feature
Security cable slot (used with an optional security cable)
Using passwords 53