 What is a user account?In Windows XP, a user account is a collection of information that tells Windows what files and folders you can access, what changes you can make to the computer, and your personal preferences, such as your desktop background or color theme. User accounts make it so that you can share a computer with several people, but still have your own files and settings. Each person accesses their user account with a user name and password. For information about how user accounts work in Windows Vista, see Windows Help and How-To: What is a user account? Why use a Limited User account for browsing the Web?There are two types of user accounts in Windows XP: | • | Limited User accounts | | • | Administrator accounts |
If you work in a Limited User account, you might be able to decrease the effect of a virus or other malicious software.
But if the attack happens while you're in an Administrator account, the attacker can gain full access to your computer and the results can range from annoying to catastrophic.
See which type of account you're using nowIf you're using Microsoft Windows XP, move your pointer over the clock on the bottom right of your screen. Right-click the clock, and then click, Adjust Date/Time. | • | If you're using a Limited User account, you will get a message reading "You do not have the proper privilege level to change System Time." | | • | If you are using an Administrator account, a small window will open with controls you can use to change the time and date on your computer.
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What's the difference between Administrator and Limited User accounts?An Administrator account is an account that lets you make changes that will affect other users, such as changing security settings. You can access all the files on the computer from an Administrator account.
When you work in an Administrator account, you can: | • | Set up your computer and install your initial software and hardware. | | • | Set preferences and make repairs. | | • | Add new programs and hardware, such as music-sharing software or a printer.
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Administrator accounts are the default type of account for Windows XP. A Limited User account lets you use most of the capabilities of the computer, but only an Administrator can make changes that affect other users of the computer. For example, in a Limited User account, you can use: | • | Web browsers and e-mail programs | | • | Productivity programs such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint | | • | Entertainment programs that let you play music and video, edit photographs, and much more |
Note: You can also create a Guest account, which has most of the functions of a Limited User account but it is not password-protected, so a guest user can quickly log on and off again to perform simple tasks, such as checking e-mail or browsing the Internet.
Set up a user accountUsing the right kind of account at the right time is an excellent way to help protect your computer, and setting up accounts is simple. For a step-by-step guide to setting up a new user account, see Create and customize user accounts. Note: By default, Windows Vista runs your programs in a secure mode using standard user privileges. When an application attempts to perform a potentially dangerous operation that requires administrator privileges, Windows Vista asks you for your consent before allowing that program to run. This helps reduce the impact of viruses, spyware, and other threats. For more information, see Windows Vista User Account Control.
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