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duckwing · May 7, 2007, 11:44 AM

On some occasions, when I type in a user name then go to enter a password, I get a message asking if I want to have Windows remember the password. If I do, then the next time I enter my user name and click on the password block, the password is automatically loaded. Question--is there a way to "force" Windows to remember the password if I have previously not optioned to have it saved. I am using XP Home Edition.

Thanks--Jim

Clough · May 8, 2007, 11:56 PM

I don't know if there is a way to force Windows to remember passwords. But, if I were you, for the sake of your personal security, I wouldn't have any sites remember any passwords that I have used.

I would suggest just typing in your passwords into a program such as your Drafts folder in Outlook Express or into a Word document. And, then copying and pasting them into the form when you need to use them.

I have experienced it where I was notified that an entity whom I did not know, was trying to read what I was typing into a login on a site.

The server that I use also recommends not having any sites remember a persons login information.

Capuchin · May 9, 2007, 12:00 AM

The websites don't remember your passwords, all it does is store a cookie on your machine that the site opens up later to check if it exists and then takes the data from there. It's probably more secure than the method you suggest, Clough. Logging into a site gives them your password should they want it.

If the machine isn't one that only you use, I don't suggest remembering the password. If it is, then I don't think there is a way to get windows to automatically remember your passwords. This is because for example you REALLY shouldn't store your bank password in your computer. Even if you are the only one who uses it, someone still might be able to get hold of the data easily. It's a security measure.

CaptainRich · May 9, 2007, 04:54 AM

Originally Posted by Capuchin

The websites don't remember your passwords, all it does is store a cookie on your machine that the site opens up later to check if it exists and then takes the data from there. It's probably more secure than the method you suggest, Clough. Logging into a site gives them your password should they want it.

If the machine isn't one that only you use, I don't suggest remembering the password. If it is, then I don't think there is a way to get windows to automatically remember your passwords. This is because for example you REALLY should store your bank password in your computer. Even if you are the only one who uses it, someone still might be able to get hold of the data easily. It's a security measure.

Correct. The login data is stored on your computer only. If you have "Auto Complete" enabled it can recall login name and password (if "remembered") with just one keystroke. Or you can opt to not save any passwords. If you want to clear this data, use "Tools," then click "Internet Options..." then at the General tab, you can delete cookeis, file, including offline content, if desired, and finally, last but not least, "Clear History," and reset History timer to zero days. I've been told doing all this periodically will allow your programs to run faster and smoother. Seems to help Any comments?

ScottGem · May 9, 2007, 05:35 AM

Just some more clarification. When IE asks if you want to remember a password, that password is stored on YOUR PC in an encrypted file. I don't know of anyway to get IE to ask against for a site aside from removing ALL passwords. When you store a password there. The site can't read it, IE just pastes it into the password box to be transmitted as if you typed it.

When a SITE asks if you want them to remember you on this computer, they are setting a cookie on your PC that the site reads when you go back.

I also don't recommend storing passwords on a shared machine.

duckwing · May 9, 2007, 02:59 PM

The question is not regarding clicking the "remember me" box on a web site log in page. I guess that's where the cookie would come from. This is a message block that asks "do you want Windows to remember the password" or something to that effect. Comes up when I click the password entry area. Come to think of it, it also comes up if I have changed the password on a web site and says "The password you entered has changed, do you want Windows to remember the new password". Guess I could change a password and get it to save the new one but just wondered if there was another way to get there.

Thanks for the inputs so far--Jim