Windows XP for Starters: The Missing Manual: Exactly What You Need to Get Started

2.1. Logging In

If your PC isn't connected to any others and you're the only one who uses it, life is easy. You arrive at the Windows XP desktop without needing to log in.

Otherwise, what happens when you turn on your PC (or when you complete your first setup) depends on whether your PC is connected to some kind of network. Windows XP behaves a bit differently when the computer is on a big, corporate network than when it's on a home network. That's why what you see onscreen when you log in may not match the examples you see in magazines, books, and Web sites.

2.1.1. Workgroups vs. Domains

Although Windows XP works very well for home PCs, it's also designed to thrive in massively networked corporations. It has two slightly different personalities that you only really see when you're starting up each day.

When you connect your PCs, printers, and so on into a home network, Windows calls that a workgroup . You can share files with other machines in the workgroup by setting up an account for yourself on each machine. Some very small businesses also use a workgroup arrangement. (Chapter 13 is all about home networking.)

If you're in a larger office, you're probably part of a domain network , managed by a system administrator ( sysadmin for short). This highly paid professional can set up and troubleshoot all files and security settings on all domain PCs.

If you're not sure whether your computer is a member of a workgroup or a domain, choose Start Control Panel System, and then click the Computer Name tab. This dialog box shows the name of your computer and the name of its domain or workgroup.

• If your PC is part of a workgroup , you may encounter the Welcome dialog box shown in Figure 2-1. Click your name in the list, type your password if you're asked for it, and click the little right-pointing arrow button (or press Enter). You arrive at the desktop.

• If your PC is on a domain network , you'll see a message saying "Press Ctrl+Alt+Del to begin" when you power up. You must press those keys to summon the logon window. Type your name in the User Name box, type your password in the Password box, and then click OK (or press Enter). You arrive at the desktop.