windows password at startup

...Here's a direct link:

http://reviews.cnet.com/5208-6121-0.html?forumID=45&threadID=31106&messageID=354546

Hope this helps.

Grif

Bypass The Windows XP Log On Screen?
To make logon an unattended process:

Click [Start] [Run] and type
control userpasswords2
Click [OK]
The [User Accounts] Property Sheet displays.
On [Users] tab, clear the [Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer] check box.
Click [Apply].
Enter a user name and password that should be used to logon automatically in the dialog box that appears.
Click [OK].
Go to [Control Panel] [User Accounts] [Change the Way Users Log On and Off].
Uncheck [Use the Welcome Screen] and [Use Fast User Switching]

Okay, but my question is "WHY"? From a security standpoint, this is NOT a good idea. That password may be the last line of defense standing between you and a hacker. I'm a tech, with certifications including N+ (networking) and a college degree to go along with it. If a someone gains access to your house or a hacker gets access to your network (if you have one), that password may be the one thing keeping your system safe. A hacker needs three things, and three things only; your IP address, your user name, and your password. By doing what you are attempting to do, he now only needs your IP address. But, it really makes no difference anyway because you probably haven't protected your system. Most people don't. Windows creates an account titled "Administrator" with no password. Most people never mess with it, so a hacker first will try the user name "Administrator" and nothing in the "password" field to get access to your system. None of my computers have an account called "Administrator" because I have renamed it, and I created a password of over 100 characters which I have stored in a safe place not in my house. Who do you think has the safer system, you or me?