Securing your computer. Acer Predator PT917-71

56 - Securing your computer

S

ECURING YOUR COMPUTER

Your computer is a valuable investment that you need to take care of. Learn how to protect and take care of your computer.

Security features include hardware and software locks — a security notch and passwords.

Using a computer security lock

The computer comes with a computer security slot for a security lock.

Wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable object such as a table or handle of a locked drawer. Insert the lock into the notch and turn the key to secure the lock.

Some keyless models are also available.

Using passwords

Passwords protect your computer from unauthorized access. Setting these passwords creates several different levels of protection for your computer and data:

• Supervisor Password prevents unauthorized entry into the

BIOS utility. Once set, you must enter this password to

gain access to the BIOS utility. See Setting passwords on page 58 .

• User Password secures your computer against unauthorized use. Combine the use of this password with password checkpoints on boot-up and resume from

Hibernation (if available) for maximum security.

• Password on Boot secures your computer against unauthorized use. Combine the use of this password with

Securing your computer - 57 password checkpoints on boot-up and resume from

Hibernation (if available) for maximum security.

Important

Do not forget your Supervisor Password! If you forget your password, please get in touch with your dealer or an authorized service center.

Entering passwords

When a password is set, a password prompt appears in the center of the display screen.

• When the Supervisor Password is set, a prompt appears when you enter the BIOS utility.

• Type the Supervisor Password and press Enter to access the BIOS utility. If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and press Enter .

• When the User Password is set and the password on boot parameter is enabled, a prompt appears at boot-up.

• Type the User Password and press Enter to use the computer. If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and press Enter .

Important

You have three chances to enter a password. If you fail to enter the password correctly after three tries, the system halts. Press and hold the power button for four seconds to shut down the computer. Then turn on the computer again, and try again.