How Do I Log In Automatically to Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7?

There's a question that I'm often asked. It usually goes like this: "I'm the only user of my computer. How can I make Windows log me in automatically, so I don't have to click on my user icon or enter my password?"

First, let me say that doing this bypasses some of the security of Windows, and opens your computer to anyone trying to log in remotely (assuming they can get past your router's firewall function or the firewall software running on your computer).

Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 all have very similar functions that enable you to allow an automatic log-in to your computer.

We'll use Windows 7 as the example, but the screens are similar for Windows XP and Vista.

First, let's consider the Users Accounts functions in the Control Panel. This is where you can create user accounts, change their pictures (icons), set their passwords, set the type account (administrator or limited user), and delete user accounts.

There are two ways to get to the same place. First, we can go the usual route via Control Panel, to User Accounts. We can also jump there directly by running that particular program.

First, click on the Start Button. The next step differs by operating system.

In Windows XP, click on Run. This will open a dialog box, into which you type control userpasswords and press enter.

In Windows 7, type run in the search box and wait. Then, at the top of the search results, you will find the program names that include the word "run". Click on the one that simply says "Run". Type control userpasswords

Copyright © 2010 Terry A. Stockdale. All rights reserved.