Gateway EC19C, User Manual

Page: 66 / 222

CHAPTER 6: Protecting Your Notebook
60
Hardware security
You probably purchased your notebook so you can take it with you. Because it’s
light-weight and compact, it’s easy to carry. But these features also make it easy for
someone else to steal. You may be able to replace your notebook with a call to your
insurance agent, but you cannot replace the information stored on your notebook.
Kensington lock slot
The first step in computer security is preventing your notebook from being stolen.
Attach a cable lock to the Kensington lock slot on your notebook, then wrap the cable
lock around a solid object like the leg of a desk or table. You can buy a cable lock
at most electronics stores and many department stores.
For the location of the Kensington lock slot, see your
Reference Guide
.
Data security
The second step in computer security is keeping your data safe and secure.
Startup and hard drive password
Use a startup and hard drive password to keep other people from using your
notebook. You have to enter your password when you turn on your notebook or
access your files.
These passwords are set in your notebook’s BIOS setup utility. Use a password that
you can remember but that would be hard for someone else to guess.
Windows user accounts
Windows lets you set up a user account for each person who uses your notebook.
When you set up user accounts, Windows sets up a Documents folder for each
account. You can assign a password to each account so only the account owner can
access files in the Documents folder.
Tip
For instructions on creating a startup and hard drive password, see your
notebook’s
Reference Guide
. Make sure that you use a password you can
remember. The password feature is very secure, and you cannot bypass it. If
you forget your password, you will have to return your notebook to Gateway
so we can reset it.