password request

[Nurmi]

The other morning I was greeted by the request for my password to Windows XP.
I am the only user of the computer, therefore also the administrator. In
that capacity I have never felt the necessity to use a password. This
request was new, origion unknown and set to refuse entry without it.
I re-booted a number of times, then re-booted using save mode and finally
booted via the Windows XP Disk. Each time the result is the same. Unable to
go further I used a tech who had only one remedy, a re-format.
Now when I boot up I am still asked for a password, but am able to open the
Progr. by simply clicking OK.
What do I do the next time? Where did this come from? Is it an up-date to
increase security? Did I fail to see the instructions? Can I use DOS to at
least reformat and thus save the tech fees?
I am grateful for any explanation and advice.

 

[Anteaus]

If using XP Home, reboot into safe mode (press F8 while starting) this should
allow access as Administrator.

Or, this should do the trick:

http://home.eunet.no/pnordahl/ntpasswd/

As a last resort, do a Repair Install. Formatting is not necessary.

 

[Anteaus]

Also, to get rid of the password prompt, type 'control userpasswords2' into a
Run box. Select the account you want to use, and untick 'users must enter a
password'

 

[Nurmi]

Hello Anteaus, thank you! However safe mode installed all the files and then
asked for a password.
With the CD in ithe Player and clicking of "Repai" failed as well.
Following the re-format and re-install and without doing anything in the
"User Account" Control Panel, I am still being greeted with the request for a
passowrd, only now klicking on OK removes the request. I shall try your
suggestions. Is there a progr or a way which by-passes the sign-up and takes
me direct into the system?

 

[Nurmi]

Hello Anteaus, I followed your advise but had no joy. So in an effort to
avoid problems I came up with a password.
What I get now is the sign-in box with Administrator written where my name
should be, an empty box for password and a notice: "This system could not log
on. Make sure username and domain are correct then type your password again.
Letters in password must be typed using correct case!" I would like to get
rid of the password which I think is unnecessary but am worried I get left
out in the cold again.