Re: Want to restrict teenager's ability to download programs etc

Redhead5639 wrote:
I am adopting a deaf teenager who is living with me. See gets around my instructions buy saying,"I didn't understand" even when rules/regulations are written out for her. I DO NOT want her to be able to download programs etc from the internet or in anyway change the way my computer is set up. I thought when I was the "administrator" I was the only person that could do this. This evening she made herself an "administrator" even though I have told her over and over, "do not change or add anything to my computer!" I don' want to deny her access as being deaf it is her best means of communication with friends. I just spent 2 days re-installing Windows XP. In the 4 years I have had this computer/operating system I have never had to do it. She tried to tell me it was just a coincedence. I don't think so.
So is it possible to do what I want?
Thanks, Red Tx


It would seem clear that you haven't even taken the most basic of security precautions by password protecting the built-in Administrator account. The standard security practice is to rename the account, set a strong password on it, and use it only to create another account for regular use, reserving the Administrator account as a "back door" in case something corrupts your regular account(s).

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

Microsoft Shared Computer Toolkit for Windows XP
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sharedaccess/default.mspx

Doug Knox's Windows® XP Security Console
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/utils/xp_securityconsole.htm

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. You should also be aware that without physical security, there is no security. Linux-based password cracking utilities abound on the Internet, freely available to anyone who can use Google, much less an expert. Anyone with a modicum of knowledge and the desire can compromise any computer to which he/she has unfettered physical access. If you cannot trust his child (and, judging by your post, you can't) to safely/properly use the computer without supervision, you may have to consider limiting her access to it.


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Bruce Chambers

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They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. -Benjamin Franklin

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Relevant Pages

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