Desktop Board Features

BIOS Security Passwords

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

The supervisor password gives unrestricted access to view and change all Setup options. If only the supervisor password is set, pressing <Enter> at the password prompt of Setup gives the user restricted access to Setup.

If both the supervisor and user passwords are set, you must enter either the supervisor password or the user password to access Setup. Setup options are then available for viewing and changing depending on whether the supervisor or user password was entered.

Setting a user password restricts who can boot the computer. The password prompt is 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, you can enter either password to boot the computer.

For instructions on resetting the password, go to Clearing Passwords on page 60.

Hard Disk Drive Passwords

The board’s Hard Disk Drive Password Security feature blocks read and write accesses to the hard disk drive until the correct password is entered. Hard disk drive passwords are set in BIOS Setup and are prompted for during the POST. For convenient support of ACPI S3 resume, the system BIOS automatically unlocks drives on resume from S3.

The User hard disk drive password, when set, will be required upon each power cycle until the Master Key or User hard disk drive password is entered.

The Master Key hard disk drive password, when set, will not lock the hard disk drive. The Master Key hard disk drive password is an unlock override that can be used in the event that the User hard disk drive password has been forgotten. Only the installation of the User hard disk drive password will cause a hard disk drive to be locked upon a system power cycle.

Table 4 shows the effects of setting the hard disk drive passwords.

Table 4. Master Key and User Hard Disk Drive Password Functions

Password Set

Password During Boot

 

 

Neither

None

 

 

Master only

None

 

 

User only

User only

 

 

Master and User

Master or User

 

 

21

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Intel DQ57TM Bios Security Passwords, Hard Disk Drive Passwords, Master Key and User Hard Disk Drive Password Functions

DQ57TM specifications

The Intel DQ57TM is a versatile and powerful micro ATX motherboard designed primarily for business and industrial use. This motherboard is part of Intel's Q57 chipset family and supports the latest Intel Core processors, offering robust performance and advanced features that cater to the needs of both professional and everyday users.

One of the standout features of the DQ57TM is its support for Intel vPro technology. This feature allows IT departments to manage systems more efficiently, providing remote management and security capabilities that are essential for enterprise environments. With vPro, administrators can perform tasks like remote rebooting or updating BIOS even if the operating system is not responsive, safeguarding business continuity.

The DQ57TM also boasts support for Intel's Turbo Boost technology, which dynamically adjusts the processor’s frequency based on workload demands. This ensures enhanced performance during intensive tasks while optimizing power consumption during lighter workloads, allowing users to enjoy greater efficiency. Coupled with support for up to 16 GB of DDR3 memory in four slots, the motherboard can handle demanding applications and multitasking with ease.

In terms of connectivity, the DQ57TM features multiple USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports, providing high-speed data transfer capabilities. It also includes a legacy PS/2 connector for compatibility with older peripherals. The integrated Intel HD Graphics offer solid performance for everyday tasks and light gaming, along with HDMI and DisplayPort outputs that ensure high-definition video output.

Storage options are generous, as the motherboard supports both SATA II and SATA III interfaces, facilitating fast data access and transfer rates for SSDs and HDDs alike. The RAID support (0, 1, 5, and 10) further enhances data redundancy and performance, making it an excellent choice for data-critical applications.

The DQ57TM also emphasizes security features, including Intel Trusted Execution Technology and various BIOS security options, which assist in protecting sensitive information against malware and unauthorized access.

Overall, the Intel DQ57TM motherboard merges performance, manageability, and security, making it an ideal choice for small businesses and enterprise users looking for a reliable and efficient computing solution. Its combination of modern technologies and solid build quality ensures that it can meet diverse computing demands in today’s fast-paced environment.