Recommended procedure: Log off Windows (see notes below for details) Leave computer power on (so it's accessible) Turn off monitor (to prevent screen burnout) Remove all discs from drives (interfere w/ boot process) Provide IT w/ password(s) as needed (details below) Leave it at the Windows login screen

Notes:

How do I log off Windows?

• Windows 7/Vista     Alt+Ctrl+Del,  Alt+L

  • hold Alt + Ctrl, then strike Del), which brings up "Windows Security"

  • hold Alt, then strike L (for immediate log off)

• Windows XP      Alt+Ctrl+Del,  L,  L

  • hold Alt + Ctrl, then strike Del), which brings up "Windows Security"

  • strike L (for log off),

  • strike L again (to confirm)

Why log off?

• It's risky to leave system logged in and unattended.

  • Unauthorized persons can gain access to confidential data.

  • A power glitch could also cause losses/corruptions.

  • Leaving files opened will likely interfere with backup process.

• Logging off forces you to save all documents as needed.

  • IT can't decide for you, and it'll cause needless contacts/delays.

  •  Note: Saving when it shouldn't be causes inadvertent alterations/losses.

• IT admins have specific needs, and prefer to login to admin account with tools and environments optimized for such operations.

• An existing session presents a major dilemma:

  • Resume that user session (requires user's password) in order to log off properly (still subject to file-saving dilemma), then re-login as admin. Very time consuming!

  • Take the justifiable risk of terminating (crashing) existing session and possible data losses. Sometimes it's the only option.

• Per privacy rules: IT should avoid seeing user data or otherwise accessing user accounts, unless it's necessary to perform the task(s) in question.

Why can't I just rely on screen savers & auto monitor power off?

• By default, Windows disables screen saver (and monitor power savings) features at the login screen. This is a security precaution, to prevent takeover via rogue screen saver programs. This behavior can be overridden, with some risk.

Account Password (Windows & email, etc.):

• If the task must be performed from within the user account, be sure to provide all the necessary passwords, unless they're already on-file and unchanged.

• Alternatively, a new user password will be assigned, and you'll be notified (typically via voicemail). IT cannot see what your existing password is, but has the power to issue new ones.

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See also:

• Bravo Policies & Protocols on Remote Access

• What to Expect During Remote Session

• Cost Effectiveness