Understanding user accounts
A user is someone who uses a computer.
A user account defines what a user can do using Windows XP. In Windows XP,
there are three types of user accounts.
▶ Administrator account: The administrator can do everything with the
computer and go where he or she desires––essentially giving that person
control over the entire computer, including other accounts. The administrator
can never be disabled or deleted.
▶ Standard account: Users with standard accounts can install
programs and hardware, change picture and related personal data, and create, change,
or remove passwords.
▶ Guest account: A guest account doesn’t require a password, can’t add or remove programs form the computer and is disabled by default. This account type is ideal kids and students.
Managing
user accounts
To easily manage user account, click
the User Accounts icon in the Control Panel.
The User Accounts window
presents you with an easy-to-use interface.
Creating
a new account
You can create new user account as
needed, giving others access to your computer (without sharing your password).
To
create a new account:
1.
Click
Create a New Account in the User Accounts windows.
2.
A
User Account window appears. Enter the name of the new account,
then click Next.
3.
The
next window asks you pick an account type. Choose Computer Administrator
or Limited by clicking the appropriate radio button.
4.
If
you’re not sure, click each one and read the list of actions that can be performed
by the account type.
5.
When
finishes, click the Create Account button.
6.
The
new account now appears in the User Account window.
TO
change an existing user account:
1.
Click
Change an Account in the User Accounts window.
2.
A
window appears asking you which account you want to change.
3.
The
next window (figure below) allows you to change the name on the account,
picture, and the account type; create a password; and delete the account. Make necessary
changes.
4.
Use
the Back button to return to the original; list to make any additional
changes.
Changing
user log on and log off procedures
You can also select the way users log
on and log off.
To
change log on and log off options:
▶
Click Change the way users log on and off in the Users Accounts
window.
▶
You’ll see two check boxes that allow you to enable the Welcome screen and
Fast User Switching. Fast User Switching allows you to switch to
another user account without closing any program.
