[nyvtr]

I have a Compaq Presario 2100 running XP SP2.

I am concerned with logging in as an Admin by default. As such, I created another user account with limited privelidges. I use the limited account unless I am installing software.

I find that the stability of the system is worse when I log in as the limited user. If I log in as my Admin, then 'Switch User' to my limited account (keeping the Admin account logged in), stability improves.

Stability refers to the system responding to settings I manipulate as the Admin, especially power managment settings. As an example, the limited account cannot change the 'Power Profile' of the system, so I log in as the Admin to do that. When only the limited account is logged into the system, the power managment seems to do what it will with out regard to the settings specified by the Admin acount, i.e. the laptop is supposed to hibernate when I shut the lid; when only the limtied account is logged in, it does a standby instead!

If I log in as Admin, then switch to the limited account (keeping Admin logged in), the system does what is expected.

Am I going about the whole thing the wrong way? I mean, should I have a different security scheme?

I would like to not have to log in as Admin then switch as this is eating valuable RAM.

Regards,
Brad

[Compaq__]

Given the information, you should just login with Admin and do your thing. If you get hacked somehow, your data will be vulnerable whether you login with Admin or not.

To keep yourself as safe as possible, turn your firewall on, do a windows update and make sure you have the latest OS security updates, load virusscan and keep it up to date and you should be just fine.

Don't stress yourself out about being logged in with an Admin level account. Especially not with a home PC.

[blues_harp28]

Hi check.
Here

[Compaq__]

MS always recommends that to cover their butt. Otherwise they get sued if something happens. Is it practical? Well, for the vast majority of us....no.

I stick with take the appropriate precautions and your chance of having a problem is nearly nil.

Good article though. It's up to you how you want to go.

[nyvtr]

Thanks for the replies.

I am going to try the following simple scheme...

Log in as Admin always.

When running a program, right click >> Run As >> limited user...especially internet applications.

We'll see.

Brad