How to Password Protect Safe Mode in Windows XP

Windows has a feature that allows users to access their computer in Safe Mode, which they can use to diagnose and fix problems. Anyone can access your computer through Safe Mode unless you manually set the password to limit the audience.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP

Instructions

1. Restart your computer. As it boots up, click "F8" 5 to 10 times as fast as you can. Choose "Safe Mode" from the Advanced Boot screen. Hit "Enter." Your computer is booting in Safe Mode.

2. Check that you are logged in as the computer's administrator. Click on "User accounts" to see who is logged in. You have to be logged in as the administrator to change the passwords.

3. Go to "Run" in the Start menu and type "control userpasswords" into the box. Hit "Enter" to continue. A window appears and asks who you are.

4. Click on "Administrator" in the window that pops up.

5. Choose "Change Password" from the list provided. Enter the passwords for each account and for Safe Mode in the boxes provided. Remember to write down each password.

Tips & Warnings

• Change passwords once every two or three months. This makes using the computer without your knowledge more difficult.

• Keep your Windows software updated. Activate Windows update and set it to automatic to avoid worms and problems with your PC.