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Basic Security - Activate a Password Protected Screensaver

If you need assistance implementing this step, please contact the ITU Support Center at (703) 993-8870.

How (for Windows):

1. Right click on an empty space on your computer’s desktop.
2. Click Properties and then the Screen Saver tab
3. Change Wait time to 10 minutes or less.
4. Click Apply.
5. NOTE: The password is the one you use to log in to your computer. If you use Novell and have two log in passwords, use the one for the Novell window (usually the first one you enter.)

How (for Mac):

1. Open System Preferences from the Dock.
2. Click the Security icon under “Personal”.
3. Check “Require password to wake this computer from sleep or screen saver."
4. Check "Disable automatic login."

Why?

Using a screensaver that requires a password can prevent someone from quickly accessing your computer and it's resources. A person that has access to your computer can assume your identity: sending malicious emails from your account or worse, collect additional information that may be used to access more sensitive accounts or files.