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Windows XP and Account Management

Remove the Welcome Screen

SUMMARY: For increased security, you may wish to disable the Windows XP Welcome screen.

Normally, when you boot up your machine, Windows XP shows you a "Welcome" screen where you can easily click on your account name. Then, all you need to do is enter your password, and you're ready to go! There may be times, however, where you want to disable this screen. If other users access the same computer, you may not want others to know the name of your administrator and/or other accounts. Thus, for added security, you can revert to the default login screen where users have to correctly enter their username and password.

1. Click the "Start" menu.

2. Select "Control Panel".

3. When the Control Panel appears, select "User Accounts".

4. When the "User Accounts" window appears, underneath "Or pick an account to change", click "Change the way users log on or off".

5. Uncheck "Use the Welcome Screen".

6. Click the "Apply Options" button.

Return to the Windows XP and Account Management page.

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The MalekTips website was created in 1998 by Andrew Malek of Envision Programming. The page's goal is to freely disperse computer-related tips, hints, and informative articles. Tips are organized to be easy to find, and are presented clearly, in easy-to-understand language. MalekTips also provides information and links to public-domain, open source, freeware, shareware, and commercial software available for download. < more >