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8
Securing your computer and information
Computer security is essential for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your information.
Standard security solutions provided by the Windows operating system, HP applications, the Setup Utility
(BIOS), and other third-party software can help protect your computer from a variety of risks, such as viruses,
worms, and other types of malicious code.
NOTE:
Some security features listed in this chapter may not be available on your computer.
Using passwords
A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure your computer information and to protect
online transactions. You can set several types of passwords. For example, when you set up your computer
for the first time, you were asked to create a user password to secure your computer. You can set additional
passwords in Windows or in HP Setup Utility (BIOS), which 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.
To create and save passwords, use the following tips:
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 3 months.
●
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.
NOTE:
For additional information about Windows passwords, such as screen-saver passwords:
Select the Search icon in the taskbar, type support in the search box, and then select the HP Support
Assistant app.
– or –
Select the question mark icon in the taskbar.
Setting Windows passwords
Windows passwords can help protect your computer from unauthorized access.
Table 8-1
Types of Windows passwords and their functions
Password
User password
44
Chapter 8 Securing your computer and information
Function
Protects access to a Windows user account.
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