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File security is no laughing matter for educators. Grades, IEPs, and other student information should be accessible to only a few, so protect those and other files with passwords. Check out the tips below for ensuring that your files are safe from prying eyes.

A Tough Nut to Crack
Make passwords hard to guess.

When creating passwords, choose a combination of at least six letters and numbers. Avoid the names of pets, hobbies, sports teams, and family or any other easy-to-guess words.

Lock it Down, Part One!
Prevent others from using your computer.

If you're running Windows XP, you can prevent others from accessing your files while you're away from your computer by pressing CTRL, ALT and DEL, then hitting ENTER. When you're ready to use your computer again, just type in your user name and password.

Lock it Down, Part Two!
Create a password-protected screensaver.

Secure sensitive information on your hard drive by requiring a password to deactivate the screen saver and view other fields. Go to Start > Control Panel > Display to select password protection for your computer.

Article by Lorrie Jackson
Education World®
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