Using passwords

Most security features use passwords. Whenever you set a password, write down the password and store it in a secure location away from the computer. Note the following password considerations:

●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 their 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.

Setting passwords in Windows

Windows passwords

Function

 

 

Administrator password*

Protects access to a Windows administrator-level account.

 

 

User password*

Protects access to a Windows user account.

*For information about setting a Windows administrator password or a Windows user password, select Start > Help and Support.

Setting passwords in Computer Setup

BIOS administrator passwords

Function

 

 

BIOS administrator password

Protects access to Computer Setup.

 

 

DriveLock master password

Protects access to the internal hard drive that is protected by

 

DriveLock. It is also used to remove DriveLock protection.

 

This password is set under DriveLock Passwords during the

 

enable process.

 

 

108 Chapter 11 Security