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View Full Version : How can I keep classmates from sabotaging my computer?


Toz
02-23-2008, 07:02 PM
At school we have a tech lab specifically for fixing computers and learning about hardware and Windows XP. We each have our own computers and complete administrator access. In a lab filled with countless amounts of computer hardware and supplies, whats the best way to prevent (or at least make it more difficult) to hack into my computer when I'm not in the lab?

The main problem is when people put in Linux CDs and software hacks and boot from those, then wipe my password. Is there a secure and practical way to completely block access to the CD drive/portable device/floppy disk by prompting for a password?

I should let you know that these computers do not store any valuable information, and thus are not that important. So any humorous suggestions that will just annoy whoever is hacking my computer will be great.
mjq424
02-23-2008, 07:15 PM
Hi
You can add a BIOS password that will block access to the entire machine. However, I advise caution in this respect, as if this becomes corrupted you will not have any access!
Toz
02-23-2008, 08:08 PM
This sounds like what I'm looking for, will it be available in the BIOS setup?
BertImmenschuh
02-23-2008, 09:55 PM
Most BIOS Setups do have a place to set a password, could be two, one for booting the computer and the other for making BIOS changes.
jdharm
02-24-2008, 04:30 AM
But as this is a lab specifically about working on computers it is probably common knowledge that a simple jumper switch or battery removal will reset this.

The fact is, as any of the admins here will tell you, 'If I can touch it, I will own it.' The only way to keep people from screwing with it is to lock it in a steel case. If I were the teacher I would say that is a completely legitimate solution given the nature of the class, so long as I have a copy of the key/combination.

Got a buddy in metal shop that can whip one up? Or some of the cases have little tangs that stick out through the back of the side panel that you could put a lock through. That thin sheet metal is not as substantial, but better than nothing.

Just my $.02USD.