Owner's manual

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:
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Setup, power-on, and DriveLock passwords are set in Computer Setup and are managed by the
system BIOS.
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The embedded security password can be enabled in Computer Setup to provide BIOS password
protection. The embedded security password is used with the optional embedded security chip.
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Operating system passwords are set only in the operating system.
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If you forget the setup password set in Computer Setup, you will not be able to access the utility.
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If you have the stringent security feature enabled in Computer Setup and you forget the setup
password, the computer is inaccessible and can no longer be used. Call technical support or your
authorized service provider for additional information.
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If you forget the setup password set in Computer Setup, you cannot turn on the computer or exit
Hibernation. Call technical support or your authorized service provider for additional information.
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If you forget both the user password and the master DriveLock 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 an operating system 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:
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When creating passwords, follow requirements set by the program.
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Write down your passwords and store them in a secure place away from the computer.
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Do not store passwords in a file on the computer.
The following tables list commonly used operating system and Computer Setup passwords and describe
their functions.
Setting passwords in the operating system
Operating system passwords Function
Root password* Protects access to an operating system root-level account.
User password* Protects access to an operating system user account.
*For information about setting an operating system root password or an operating system user password, select Computer
> Help.
Setting passwords in Computer Setup
Computer Setup passwords Function
Setup 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
58 Chapter 9 Security