OT: windows' user accounts

dfields wrote on 9/3/2004, 12:38 PM
Do you guys know if It is possible to make each windows identity (user account) start some specific services (such as antivirus, etc)?
If this is possible I could create several identities on windows and choose the one that I want to logon.

I could create an “edit” identity which would not start the antivirus and other services. Other user account could be “My_name” which I could use for general tasks (internet, email, ms project, etc)

Is this possible?

I am asking this because sometimes when I'm installing a new software, there is a popup that asks me if I want to install it only for this user or if I want to install it for all of the computer's users.

Comments

kentwolf wrote on 9/3/2004, 11:16 PM
>>...Do you guys know if It is possible to make each windows identity (user
>>account) start some specific services (such as antivirus, etc)?

Yes, you can. Either log in on the identity and manually start the app, use Schedule Tasks (WinXP System app), or, depending on the app, it may have this ability built in. Also, see Start/Run/MSCONFIG[enter].

>>If this is possible I could create several identities on windows and choose
>>the one that I want to logon. I could create an “edit” identity which would
>>not start the antivirus and other services.

I see what you are trying to do, however, this would not be the way to go about it. While it may be different logins, you still pretty much have the same "system." Example: Firewalls protect the *whole* computer.

My PC has 7 user accounts (Identities), because *I* set Antivirus to run, all other user accounts also have anti virus running, etc.

What you want to do is create a *dual-boot* system.

That would do exactly what you want. Plus, when capturing, this is extremely helpful. I have run a dual boot system for years and it has been terrific. When needed, I can boot to a fully functional Windows XP with only editing/captures apps, etc. No extra overhead.
dfields wrote on 9/4/2004, 5:39 AM
Thanks Kentwolf

But could you explain to me how can I create this dual-boot system?

Do I have to install another windows XP on my computer?
kentwolf wrote on 9/4/2004, 9:52 PM
Take a look HERE.

A Google search for "dual boot setup" yields a lot of results.

I set mine up some time ago with instructions from Powerquest's (now Symantec) Partition Magic (an excellent tool).

Fundamental principles are pretty much consistent:

OS #1 resides on, say Partition A
OS #2 resides on, say Partition B

A very small partition, say Partition #1, preceding A and B above, allows switching of the active partition between A or B.

The system would boot to Partition #1 so you can then select A or B.

Partition #1 would be populated with a small software program that would facilitate the partition/OS switching. "System Commander" is one example.

In my opinion, I would not mess around with making a dual boot system unless I had and was reasonably proficient with 1.) Partition Magic and 2.) Drive Image.

These two (2) tools will allow you to configure, adjust, tweak, and back up your drives and you can easily recover from any false steps.

That is my opinion, but I tend to err on the side of caution.
dfields wrote on 9/5/2004, 7:06 AM
Sorry kentwolf.
You`re completely right.
I was sooooooo lazy this time...

Hey but thanks a lot. This will REALLY help me.

Daniel