setting up user account

[Greg]

I installed Windows XP and installed all
programs/software while in the original "Administrator"
account (and would like to install future programs in
that account).

In setting up an "everyday" user account I thought I
would just set up a "limited" account which would give me
a little protection by not using the "Administrator"
account for everyday use. I could then log on as
the "Administrator" to install software etc.

However, when I go to create the new user account it is
forcing me to create a "Computer Administrator" account
before I can create a "limited" account. I assume that
means that the original "Administrator" account will be
hidden.

Which is the appropriate way to install programs or
download software in the future:
1) switch into the new "Computer Administrator" that I
will create or
2) Boot up in safe mode and go into the
original "Administrator" account (where I loaded
everything after installation)?

Or, Is there a different way to handle what I am trying
to do?

Thanks

 

[peter]

The original admin.account will go into hiding once you create your own
admin.account.All future installs/downloads should be done from within your
admin account.This protects the original admin account(within reason) and it is
accessible thru "safe mode" in order to fix things that you might have screwed
up under your admin acct.
peter

 

[Rick \Nutcase\ Rogers]

Hi Greg,

Installing software is quite an experience in WinXP. You should set up your
own admin account. Use the system one as a fail-safe. Installing software as
the admin does not guarantee that it will run in a limited account, and this
for several reasons. See this link for more details:
http://users.westelcom.com/rogersr/xpsware.htm

--
Best of Luck,

Rick Rogers, aka "Nutcase" - Microsoft MVP

Associate Expert - WindowsXP Expert Zone

Windows help - www.rickrogers.org