Overview of BIOS Features

3.10 BIOS Security Features

The BIOS includes security features that restrict access to the BIOS Setup program and who can boot the computer. A supervisor password and a user password can be set for the BIOS Setup program and for booting the computer, with the following restrictions:

•The supervisor password gives unrestricted access to view and change all the Setup options in the BIOS Setup program. This is the supervisor mode.

•The user password gives restricted access to view and change Setup options in the BIOS Setup program. This is the user mode.

•If only the supervisor password is set, pressing the <Enter> key at the password prompt of the BIOS Setup program allows the user restricted access to Setup.

•If both the supervisor and user passwords are set, users can enter either the supervisor password or the user password to access Setup. Users have access to Setup respective to which password is entered.

•Setting the user password restricts who can boot the computer. The password prompt will be displayed before the computer is booted. If only the supervisor password is set, the computer boots without asking for a password. If both passwords are set, the user can enter either password to boot the computer.

•For enhanced security, use different passwords for the supervisor and user passwords.

•Valid password characters are A-Z, a-z, and 0-9. Passwords may be up to 16 characters in length.

Table 30 shows the effects of setting the supervisor password and user password. This table is for reference only and is not displayed on the screen.

Table 30. Supervisor and User Password Functions

 

 

 

 

Password

Password

Password

Supervisor

 

 

to Enter

During

Set

Mode

User Mode

Setup Options

Setup

Boot

 

 

 

 

 

 

Neither

Can change all

Can change all

None

None

None

 

options (Note)

options (Note)

 

 

 

Supervisor

Can change all

Can change a

Supervisor Password

Supervisor

None

only

options

limited number

 

 

 

 

 

of options

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

User only

N/A

Can change all

Enter Password

User

User

 

 

options

Clear User Password

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supervisor

Can change all

Can change a

Supervisor Password

Supervisor or

Supervisor or

and user set

options

limited number

Enter Password

user

user

 

 

of options

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note: If no password is set, any user can change all Setup options.

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Intel D945GCLF2 specifications Bios Security Features, Supervisor and User Password Functions
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D945GCLF2 specifications

The Intel D945GCLF2 is a compact and efficient motherboard designed for the Intel Atom processor family, particularly suited for low-power, cost-sensitive systems. This mini-ITX form factor board was released as a part of Intel's D945 series, targeting small form factor PCs, embedded systems, and home theater PC (HTPC) builds.

One of the standout features of the D945GCLF2 is its support for the Intel Atom N270 processor, a dual-core CPU that operates at a low thermal design power (TDP) of just 4 watts. This makes the board ideal for users looking to build energy-efficient systems without compromising on performance. The motherboard supports up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM, utilizing a single-channel memory architecture, which, while modest by today’s standards, suffices for basic computing tasks such as browsing, document editing, and media playback.

In terms of connectivity, the D945GCLF2 integrates a variety of I/O ports that enhance usability. It features four USB 2.0 ports, one PCI slot, and an IDE connector, catering to older peripherals while also allowing for the installation of additional components like graphics cards and network adapters. The onboard Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 provides adequate graphics performance for everyday activities and even supports HD video playback, making it a solid choice for multimedia applications.

Incorporating Intel's Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) technology, the D945GCLF2 allows for efficient power management, giving users the flexibility to optimize their system's energy consumption. The board also includes essential connectivity options such as Ethernet through a 10/100 LAN port, facilitating wired networking capabilities.

Furthermore, the D945GCLF2 is equipped with multiple storage options; it provides support for Serial ATA (SATA) devices, allowing for faster data transfer rates compared to traditional PATA drives. The BIOS is user-friendly and offers a range of settings for users looking to tweak their system's performance.

Overall, the Intel D945GCLF2 motherboard is a robust solution for anyone looking to build a low-cost, low-power computing system. Its combination of small form factor, energy efficiency, and decent performance makes it suitable for a variety of applications, from basic user tasks to serving as the core of a compact home theater setup. Despite its age, the D945GCLF2 remains relevant for specific, budget-friendly builds, showcasing Intel's legacy in innovative motherboard design.
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