- last post: 01.01.0001 12:00 AM PDT
I've got your back, dude.
I had the same problem one time with an exchange student coming into my dorm. Here's what you can do.
1. Lock your computer down. We're not just talking password protect your profile here, but locking down your entire computer using BIOS. When you first power on your computer from the "Off" mode (setup won't work in hibernate), hit the designated function key (varies per machine) the screen tells you to. Now you're in BIOS. Go to a Security section and lock down the computer via the password. Voila. People can't even properly turn on the computer without this password, which will be required every time you turn it on, regardless from "off" or from "hibernate". This will protect users from trying to log in, as well as protect it from, say, booting through an outside source, like an inserted disk. Hands down the most readily avalible, secure method. EDIT: One caveat, though...while this is THE most secure way of locking down your computer, it's also quite risky. If you're not good with passwords, try other options, cause if you lose this password, you'll need to replace your entire hard drive (and a few other components) before being able to use your computer.
2. Remember to lock your comptuer down when away. In this case, if you're popping your head into the kitchen for a while but wish to leave your computer running, remember to hit "winkey"+"L", the key combo which will automatically password-lock your computer. If you turn profile switching off, it's even more secure, since not a single person other than you can access your computer.
3. If you wish to give the person access, albeit limited, create a guest account for them. Windows XP has a feature that allows for it, which places a limit on what that user can and can't do with his profile, including installing apps and software. However, this last option will be of little use against a self-installing malware.
[Edited on 7/31/2006]