78.Auto Logon to Windows XP

Windows XP has the ability to store your password and other pertinent information in the registry so that you can automate the logon process. Keep in mind though, while this is a very convenient method, it has its security risks. Anyone using your computer will have access to your account and your network. Only use this setting if the other people within your network are trusted.

Warning: This tweak involves editing the Windows registry. Mistakes made while editing can have serious effects on your Windows installation. Be sure that you have made a backup copy of the registry prior to making any changes.

Here is how to configure Windows XP to auto logon:

1. Go to Start>> Run. Type in: regedit [Enter] or click OK.
2. Drill down to the following registry key:
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsNT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
3. Click the Winlogon entry in the left pane once to empty its contents into the right pane.
4. Find the DefaultUserName entry in the right pane and double click it.
5. In the Value data test box, type in your user name. Click OK.
6. Back in the right pane, locate the entry titled; DefaultPassword. Double click this entry and type in your password in the value data text box. Click OK.

Note: If the DefaultPassword entry does not exist. You will need to create this entry. Here's how:

a. Hold your mouse over the right pane and right click an empty area.
b. Click New>> String Value.
c. A new entry at the bottom of the right pane will now appear. Name it DefaultPassword. Press Enter.
d. Now, double click your new DefaultPassword entry and type in your password in the Value Data box.

7. Back in the right pane, locate the entry titled AutoAdminLogon. Double click this entry and change the value from 0 to 1. Click OK. The "1" entry turns the feature ON and the "0" turns the feature OFF.

Note: If the AutoAdminLogon entry does not exist, follow the instructions above and create this new string entry.

8. Exit the Windows Registry and restart your computer.