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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Setting the Password

In addition to the Windows password, you can use BIOS functions to set two types of passwords to protect your computer: power-on password and hard disk password.

Once you have set the power-on password, you will have to enter the password after the VAIO logo appears to start your computer. The power-on password will allow you to protect the computer from unauthorized access.

The hard disk password provides additional security for the data stored on your hard disk. If you set the hard disk password, no other users will be able to access the data without knowing the password, even if the hard disk is installed in another computer.

Adding the Power-on Password

The power-on password is provided to protect your computer from unauthorized access.

There are two types of the power-on password: machine password and user password. The machine password is provided for users with administrator rights on the computer to change all the setup options on the BIOS setup screen, as well as to start the computer. The user password is provided for other standard users to allow for changing some of the BIOS setup options, as well as starting the computer. To set the user password, you must first set the machine password.

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Once you have set the power-on password, you cannot start your computer without entering the password. Make sure not to forget the password. Write down your password and keep it safe and private from other people.

If you forget the power-on password and need assistance to reset it, a password reset fee will be charged, and your computer may need to be sent in for depot service for password reset.

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If you have set the power-on password in conjunction with the fingerprint authentication functionality, you can substitute fingerprint recognition for password entry when turning on your computer. For more information, see Using Fingerprint Authentication (page 102).