9Securing 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
IMPORTANT: Some security features listed in this chapter may not be available on your computer.
Computer risk | Security feature |
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Unauthorized use of the computer | |
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Computer viruses | Antivirus software |
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Unauthorized access to data | Firewall software |
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Unauthorized access to Setup Utility (BIOS) settings and | Administrator password |
other system identification information |
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Ongoing or future threats to the computer | Software updates |
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Unauthorized access to a Windows user account | User password |
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Unauthorized removal of the computer | Security cable lock |
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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.
●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.
Using passwords 57