Windows 8 Bible

Wrap-Up

When two or more people share a computer, user accounts enable each person to treat the computer as though it was his or her own. Users can personalize settings to their liking and keep their files separate from other users. The new Windows 8 Microsoft Accounts provide an account structure that enables multiple devices (Windows computer, Windows Phone, Windows tablets, and so on) to sync settings, apps, and other personalized items.

User accounts also work in conjunction with parental controls. A parent can set up a password-protected administrative account and then use that account to set up parental controls. You can create standard accounts for children and allow them to log in to their own accounts only. Parental controls are covered in Chapter 6.

User accounts also add security to your system by making all users have limited privileges. The general term for security through user accounts is User Account Control (UAC). Some key points to keep in mind:

• At least one person should play the role of administrator for the computer. That person should create a password-protected user account with administrative privileges.
• The administrator should also create a standard account for him- or herself and one for each person who shares the computer.
• All users (including the administrator) should use their standard accounts for day-to-day computing.
• All accounts should have a strong password.
• All the tools for creating and managing user accounts are accessible from User Accounts ...