Password Dilemma in Windows 8.1

I have always used a password to login to my computers. I know a determined person can get into a password protected computer, but a password will keep most folks out and keep your data safe.

Recently someone asked if there was a way to boot directly to Windows 8.1 without having to use  a password. There is a way and it is easy.

Open Run

  (You can also open Run from the Desktop by right clicking on the Start button and selecting Run.)

In the Run box type ‘netplwiz’ (without quote marks)



This will bring  up the following dialog box:



Now uncheck the box by ‘Users must use a user name and password to use this computer. A new dialog box will ask you to verify your password.



Type your password twice and then click OK.  Now when you start Windows 8.1 you will not have to type your password but will boot directly  in to Windows. On my computer I have it set to boot directly to the Desktop.

You can also use a picture to sign in, but this does not seem to be any more secure than not using a password. I suppose the reason it took longer to log in was because it was searching for the picture I used.

I will not use a picture to sign in.

Goodbye, Windows XP

I loved Windows XP. Outlook Express was my email until I got Microsoft Outlook. It did cause me a lot of problems, but I learned from those problems.  Every time I got a BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) I researched why and learned more. It made me think. it also made me a smarter computer person. As time went on those BSOds were fewer and fewer.

Change happens.  Not just for operating systems, life is full of changes and we must adapt or we will be lost in this modern age of technology. Smart phones, tablets and other cool tech stuff is here to stay.

So even though you love Windows XP, it’s time to move on. Microsoft has a count down page you can view to see how much longer you can safely use Windows XP. If you can, get Windows 7. (My favorite Windows is Windows 7) But if you move to Windows 8.1, it’s a great system as well. I use both Windows 7 and Windows 8.1. Eventually it will be just Window8.1 or higher but for now it’s Windows 8.1.

Underneath the face of all versions, the basics are still the same.  Microsoft changes pathways, names, etc. to stuff, but it is the same for the most part although stuff looks different and some things get removed and more get added. Of course, the Modern UI is different and takes a bit of getting used to, but the Desktop mode is good old Windows with a new face.

The softies removed the old familiar Start menu, but once you get used to the new Start, it works great. (I have heard rumors the old one may come back in the next update.)

But the main reason we must say Goodbye to Windows XP is security. With all of the hackers out there just waiting for a chance to get into your computer and Microsoft no longer issuing security patches, Windows XP will be a chancy system. No longer safe for online banking or ordering stuff on line.

Of course if all you wan to do is read emails, watch cat videos or just surf, you might get away with using Windows XP. But when your online friends all desert you because your email is sending them tons of spam with malware attached, you may reconsider and get a newer version of Windows.