ACADEMIC TECHNOLOGY

How to Lock Your Workstation

It is important to prevent others from using your computer when you step away. You must know your login ID and password before trying of any of these options.

Windows XP

Use Screen Saver Password Protection

Right click on an empty spot on your desktop.  Select Properties and then select the Screen Saver tab. 
Choose the screen saver you want to display when your computer is inactive. Select the minutes of inactivity before your screen saver activates.
Check the On resume password protect box, click OK.
Now whenever your screen saver comes on, your workstation is locked. You must enter your login ID password to resume work.

or

Use Ctrl-Alt-Delete

Hold down the Ctrl and Alt and Delete keys. Select Lock Workstation.  
The screen is now locked until you enter your login ID and password.

Mac X 10.4 and higher

Use Screen Saver Password Protection

From the Apple menu, select System Preferences, choose Desktop & Screen Saver. Choose the screen saver you want to display when your computer is inactive.
Use the Start screen saver slider to set the minutes of inactivity before your screen saver activates. Close the window to save your changes.

Select System Preferences again, then Security.
Select the Require a password to wake this computer from sleep or screen saver check box. Close the window to save your changes.
Now whenever your screen saver comes on, your workstation is locked. You must enter your login ID and password to resume work.

Last updated 5/24/10