Expert: Carolyn Meinel - 12/15/2005

Question
Hi, Carolyn.
I hope you can help with this.
I have a Windows XP home and I like my things being accesable only to me. I already have Bios and Windows passwords set up, but I want to creat something on my own.
What I have in mind is to create a clip, say for example using a Mircosoft PowerPoint. And then have it run first thing as you log in to Windows. Of cource, some how I need to desable some buttons like ESC that would exit the program, and only allow sertain ones to be used, for example to enter a password,which would be the only way get back to Windows.
 Are you following me, yet?
Also, it would be nice if Windows wouldn't load until you enter the right password or whatever it is we can do...

I have already made up a clip on PowerPoint, I can e-mail it to you, you atta take a look at it!

I don't know why, but I have this thing that my stuff should remain mine and no one else can use it. You know what I mean?

I just finished putting up a security system in my car. I no longer need a key or an alarm. It's pretty dificult to get in, unless you bust a window. And ones you get in, it's almost imposible to start it. And if you do start it, there is one more thing you gotta do, if you don't, the car will shut down and lock everything up.
It sound like too much evertime you try to start a car. No, actually it takes about 3 to 4 seconds.
What do you think of that?

Anyway,
Let me know where I can send the clip.
Thanks in advance!
Gene  

Answer
I have some bad news for you. Microsoft needed a way to get away with charging more for XP Professional than for XP Home Edition, so they made the Home version impossible to make as secure as you would like.

You can read an excellent tutorial on the differences in the two kinds of XP security at http://www.lbl.gov/ITSD/Security/systems/wxp-security-checklist.html If you decide to upgrade to the professional version, it will also help you to lock it down really well.

Better yet, get either Linux or FreeBSD for your home computer. Both are inexpensive and easy to set up so only you can use your account. I recommend RedHat from Redhat.com or SuSE from SuSE.com for a beginner.