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Windows Vista

Basics of Working with Windows Vista

The following document covers the basics of working with Windows Vista as well as some basic Windows Vista operations.

When you log on, you are connected to your H: drive; drives are mapped for access to your data and your profile settings are reestablished.

return to topLogging On to a Vista Station

Before you begin the connection process you will want to make sure the last person using the computer logged off. If you see the standard desktop or a program open, you must log off the previous user. To do this, refer to the instructions for Logging Off a Vista Station and then continue with the appropriate section below to log in as yourself.

  1. Press [Ctrl] + [Alt] + [Delete]
    All three keys must be pressed together.

  2. If someone else was logged on last,
    1. Click SWITCH USER

    2. Click OTHER USER

  3. In the User name text box, type your username
    HINT: This is the same as your email username.

  4. In the Password text box, type your password
    EXAMPLE: 2pa$s_worLd
    NOTES:
    If this is your first time logging on to a UW-Eau Claire Windows computer, you will be forced to change your password.
    For information on passwords, including how to change your password, refer to Changing Passwords.

  5. Click the LOG ON buttonLog on button
    OR
    Press [Enter]
    You are logged in and the Windows Vista desktop appears.

return to topOpening Programs

Programs are available through the Start menu and are arranged in folders based on the type of program, such as Microsoft Office or Graphics & Web Design.

  1. From the Start menu, select All Programs » select the desired category
         A list of available programs appears.

  2. From the list of programs, select the desired program
    The selected program opens.

return to topClosing Programs

Closing programs before logging off helps protect your data and is strongly recommended. The following instructions will work with most Windows programs.

  1. If necessary, save your work
    For information on saving your work, refer to Saving Files.

  2. Click CLOSEClose button
    OR
    For Office programs, from the File menuFile menu, select Exit [Program]

return to topProtecting Your Workstation and Data

If you are leaving your computer for a short time, LTS recommends that you lock your workstation. This helps prevent unauthorized access and modification to your data or files. Locking your workstation prevents anyone from using your station, but your programs will remain running for quick access when you return to your computer.

Locking Your Workstation

NOTE: You are not able to lock General Access Lab computers.

  1. Press [Ctrl] + [Alt] + [Delete]

  2. Click LOCK THIS COMPUTER
    The computer is locked.

Unlocking Your Workstation

  1. Press [Ctrl] + [Alt] + [Delete]
    The login screen appears.

  2. In the Password text box, type your password

  3. Press [Enter]
    You are returned to the Windows Vista desktop or the last program that you used.

return to topLogging Off a Vista Station

Remember to log off your workstation when you are finished using it. Failure to log off can result in unauthorized access or modifications to your data and files.

  1. From the Start menuStart button» click MOREMore button» select Log Off
    You are logged off.

return to topChanging Passwords

Your password provides important security for your files. While you are required to change it annually, it is recommended that you change it more frequently.

Requirements

Changing Your Password

  1. Press [Ctrl] + [Alt] + [Delete]

  2. Click CHANGE A PASSWORD...
    The Change Password screen appears.

  3. In the Old password text box, type your current password

  4. In the New password text box, type your desired new password

  5. In the Confirm password text box, retype your new password

  6. Click OK
    Your password is now changed.
    NOTE: This is the password you will use when you log in to UWEC network computers and your campus email.

Recommendations

If you need help changing your password, please contact the LTS Help Desk at 836-5711.


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