What can you do to prevent unauthorized access to an unattended running computer without having to shut it down?

Answer 1

(the method below takes longer, but it will use less power)

I have found a better way to do this, by simply pressing the windows logo key, and pressing l. very simple and quick;

The best way to do this is to put the computer into standby mode. This consumes less memory and power, but it boots faster, and saves all that you were doing.

First you must set a password.

The best way to do this in Windows XP is to go to the control panel (start, control panel). Make sure you are in classic view (you can change this by the menu on the left). Click "User Accounts", click "Change Accounts", and click the account that you use. Now click Change/Create a password. Close the user accounts window. Close the Control Panel.

Now you must set the computer to ask for a password when you go into standby mode.

Minimize all windows and right click an empty space. Click "properties", "screen saver", "power". Check the box labeled "prompt for password when the computer resumes from standby".

To implement this feature, all you have to do is click start menu, shut down, and change it to standby. Click OK, and when you press the power button, the computer will ask for a password.