How to Disable the Auto Lock on Windows XP

Windows XP automatically locks for security reasons and won't unlock until you provide your password. Automatic locking occurs after the screen saver starts or the computer resumes from a power-saving standby state, such as hibernation or sleep. The automatic locking ensures that, if you step away from your computer, another person cannot use the computer while you are gone. If you regularly step away from your computer, it can be inconvenient having to enter your password each time you return.

Instructions

1. Click "Start" and "Control Panel."

2. Double-click the "Display" icon.

3. Click the "Screen Saver" tab.

4. Uncheck the "On Resume, Password Protect" box if it is checked by clicking it.

5. Click the "Power" button under "Monitor Power."

6. Click the "Advanced" tab.

7. Uncheck the "Prompt For Password When Your Computer Resume From Standby" box if it is checked by clicking it.

8. Click "OK" in the Power Options Properties window and "OK" in the Display Properties window.

References

• Microsoft: To Protect Your Files by Using a Screen Saver Password
• Microsoft: How to Set Power Options So That You Are Not Prompted for a Password When a Windows XP Based-Computer Resumes From Standby