Introduction
Instructions
Password Protection for Screen Saver
Though screen savers are no longer necessary to prevent damage to your display, they can be an effective security device. If you step away from your computer and forget to lock it or otherwise secure it, a password-protected screen saver that kicks in after a short (five to 10-minute) period of inactivity could be a lifesaver. Though locking your computer is better, you should also set up the screen saver for those times when you forget to lock your computer.
Windows:
- Right-click anywhere on the desktop and click on Properties.
- XP: On the Graphics Properties window, click the Screensaver tab.
Vista: Click the Screen Saver link - Select a Screen saver from the drop-down list.
- Select the Wait time, then check the On resume, password protect box.
- Click OK.
Mac:
- From the Apple menu, select System Preferences
- Use Desktop and Screen Saver under the Personal section to set up your screen saver.
- Also under Personal, click the Security applet.
- Check the box that reads "Require password to wake this computer from sleep or screen saver.
- Close the applet.
Password Protection for Sleep Mode
If you've set up your computer to go to sleep after an interval of inactivity in order to save power, you should require that it be necessary to enter your password before the computer awakens.
Windows:
- Press Start, then Control Panel, and open the Power Options panel.
- Vista / 7: In a menu on the left-hand side, click the link that reads Require a password on wakeup and then click Save changes.
XP: Click the Advanced tab and check the box that reads "Prompt for password when computer resumes from standby," then click OK.
Mac:
- Click the Apple icon in the top left corner of the screen.
- Click System Preferences.
- Click Security.
- Check the Require password to wake this computer from sleep or screensaver box.
- Click the lock in the bottom of the window to save changes.
Audience
others