How Do I Create A Boot-Up Password

[stevem326]

Do I go into the system BIOS and set it that way? I want a password that won't let my PC even boot-up without it (before you even get to the Windows password in XP).

Thanks.

 

[FlyingPenguin]

Yes, go into BIOS, there should be a menu called "Security" that lets you set the "System" password.

Be aware that if someone REALLY knows what they're doing, resetting the CMOS will clear the password.

 

[stevem326]

Thanks for your reply. In addition to resetting the CMOS I also heard that if the battery on your mobo is removed and then reinserted it will clear the boot-up password as well.

Thanks again.

 

[stevem326]

Okay, well I tried to set a BIOS password but the only options I have in the CMOS settings are for a "user password" and a "supervisor password". I created both of these passwords but they only are for allowing someone into the CMOS settings. I'm not getting prompted for a BIOS password when I reboot the PC.

My motherboard is about 2 years old (an MSI 845e Max for a P4 computer).

Any ideas out there?

Thanks a lot for any assistance.

 

[bluestrobe]

A third party boot program like a program selector might do it. I had a version on my server awhile back that when you booted, you went into it and had to enter a password to continue onto the OS.

 

[stevem326]

Thanks but I just figured it out by checking my mobo user's guide (which I should have done in the first place instead of wasting everyone's time). I have to go into an advanced bios features menu and select "always" for the password check. This enables the password on CMOS entry and boot-up.

Thanks again though.