How to Customize the Windows XP Login Box

Some settings in the Windows XP operating system that can be customized are well known. Windows XP users can select a customized desktop wallpaper image, change the setting for the built-in Windows screen saver or choose a preferred Windows color scheme. Although it is less commonly known, it is possible to customize other settings in the operating system provided you have administrator privileges. For example, it is possible to customize the Windows XP login box with a message that you create.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Click Start > Run. Type "regedit" in the text box in the Run window. Click "OK." This opens the Registry Editor.

2. Click to expand the following keys in the Registry Editor in this order: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > Software > Microsoft > Windows NT > Current Version > and Winlogon. When you have finished, the string values for the Winlogon key will be displayed in the right-side window pane.

3. Click the "Edit" link in the menu bar of the Registry Editor, and then click the "New" link in the drop-down menu. Click "String Value" in the context menu. This will create a new string value in the right-side window pane. Double-click the new string value to open the Edit String window.

4. 
   Log On Box with Customization.

   Type "LogonPrompt" in the Value Name box in the Edit String window, and then type the customized message you have chosen in the Value Data box. Click "OK" to close the Edit String window, and then click "Close" in the upper right-hand corner of the Registry Editor to complete the process.

Tips & Warnings

• Editing the Windows Registry can cause unforeseen errors and should only be done by knowledgeable users.

References

• Windows Help File; Microsoft Windows XP Professional; Microsoft; 2002.

[caiapfas]

on 8/20/2009 I like this to use for my office.