Re: How do I prevent Windows XP Pro Users (children) from making chang

Peter Schwartz wrote:
I have Windows XP Pro installed and have user accounts for two of my children. I've found in the past that they are installing software and making unwanted changes to the system. For instance, they installed AOL, changed the system language from English to Spanish, and have downloaded files without my permission.

Basically, I want to restrict them to using MS Office 2003, Internet Explorer, MS Encarta, games, and some accessories. How can I set up Windows and/or these other programs to prevent software installation, access to other software programs I installed, downloading, and system changes?


1) Login using an account with administrative permissions.

2) Set a strong password for the built-in Administrator account (and any other administrative account, of course). In other words, use at least 8 characters, and make those characters a mixture of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters, such as *, $, _, !, @, or #. Do *NOT* use easily guessed names, dates, etc.

3) Set your children's accounts to a Limited privilege level.

HOW TO Create and Configure User Accounts in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;279783

HOW TO Set, View, Change, or Remove File and Folder Permissions
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;q308418

HOW TO Use the Internet Explorer 6 Content Advisor to Control Access
to Web Sites in Internet Explorer
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;310401

Protect Your PC
http://www.microsoft.com/security/protect/default.asp

For some requirements, you may find it easier to invest in a 3rd-party solution, such as NetNanny or CyberPatrol.

You need to be aware, however, that *NO* technical or software solution is fool-proof, and _none_ can ever adequately take the place of live adult supervision. If you cannot trust your children to safely/properly use the computer without supervision, you may have to consider limiting their access to it.


--

Bruce Chambers

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