HP 17 3 Pavilion 17 G163nr Notebook User Manual

							8 Securing your computer and information
Computer security is essential for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your
information. Standard security solutions provided by the Windows operating system, HP applications, the
Setup Utility (BIOS), and other third-party software can help protect your computer from a variety of risks,
such as viruses, worms, and other types of malicious code.
IMPORTANT:Some security features listed in this chapter may not be available on your computer.
Using passwords
A password is a group of characters that you choose to secure your computer information and to protect
online transactions. Several types of passwords can be set. For example, when you set up your computer for
the first time, you were asked to create a user password to secure your computer. Additional passwords can
be set in Windows or in HP Setup Utility (BIOS), which is preinstalled on your computer.
You may find it helpful to use the same password for a Setup Utility (BIOS) feature and for a Windows security
feature.
To create and save passwords, use the following tips:
●
To reduce the risk of being locked out of the computer, record each password and store it in a secure
place away from the computer. Do not store passwords in a file on the computer.
●
When creating passwords, follow requirements set by the program.
●
Change your passwords at least every 3 months.
●
An ideal password is long and has letters, punctuation, symbols, and numbers.
●
Before you send your computer for service, back up your files, delete confidential files, and then
remove all password settings.
For additional information about Windows passwords, such as screen-saver passwords:
▲
Type support in the taskbar search box, and then select the HP Support Assistant app.
– or –
Click the question mark icon in the taskbar.
Setting Windows passwords
Password Function
User password Protects access to a Windows user account.
Administrator password Protects administrator-level access to computer contents.
NOTE:This password cannot be used to access Setup Utility
(BIOS) contents.
ENWWUsing passwords 41 
						

							Setting Setup Utility (BIOS) passwords
Password Function
Administrator password●
Must be entered each time you access Setup Utility (BIOS).
●
If you forget your administrator password, you cannot
access Setup Utility (BIOS).
Power-on password●
Must be entered each time you turn on or restart the
computer.
●
If you forget your power-on password, you cannot turn on
or restart the computer.
To set, change, or delete an administrator or power-on password in Setup Utility (BIOS):
CAUTION:Use extreme care when making changes in Setup Utility (BIOS). Errors can prevent the computer
from operating properly.
NOTE:To start Setup Utility, your computer must be in notebook mode and you must use the keyboard
attached to your notebook. The on-screen keyboard, which displays in tablet mode, cannot access Setup
Utility.
1.Start Setup Utility (BIOS):
●
Computers or tablets with keyboards:
▲
Turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc, and then press f10.
●
Tablets without keyboards:
1.Turn on or restart the tablet, and then quickly hold down the volume down button.
- or -
Turn on or restart the tablet, and then quickly hold down the Windows button.
2.Tap f10.
2.Select Security, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Your changes take effect when the computer restarts.
Using the fingerprint reader (select products only)
Integrated fingerprint readers are available on select products.
To use the fingerprint reader, you must set up a user account and password on the computer and then
register one or more fingerprints using HP SimplePass software.
To register fingerprints with HP SimplePass:
1.Swipe a finger on the fingerprint sensor to launch HP SimplePass.
2.When the HP SimplePass welcome screen is displayed, select Get Started.
3.HP SimplePass prompts you to swipe your right index finger over the sensor.
42 Chapter 8   Securing your computer and information ENWW 
						

							4.Swipe your finger 3 times to finish the registration.
If registration is successful, a green circle appears on the corresponding finger in the illustration.
5.Repeat steps 1 through 4 to register an additional fingerprint.
Using Internet security software
When you use your computer to access email, a network, or the Internet, you potentially expose your
computer to computer viruses, spyware, and other online threats. To help protect your computer, Internet
security software that includes antivirus and firewall features may be preinstalled on your computer as a trial
offer. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses and other security risks, security
software must be kept up to date. It is strongly recommended that you upgrade the security software trial
offer or purchase the software of your choice in order to fully protect your computer.
Using antivirus software
Computer viruses can disable programs, utilities, or the operating system, or cause them to function
abnormally. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair any damage
they have caused.
To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, antivirus software must be kept up to date.
An antivirus program may be preinstalled on your computer. It is strongly recommended that you use the
antivirus program of your choice in order to fully protect your computer.
For more information about computer viruses, type support in the taskbar search box, and then select the
HP Support Assistant app.
– or –
Click the question mark icon in the taskbar.
Using firewall software
Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a system or network. A firewall can be software you
install on your computer and/or network, or it can be a combination of both hardware and software.
There are two types of firewalls to consider:
●
Host-based firewalls—Software that protects only the computer it is installed on.
●
Network-based firewalls—Installed between your DSL or cable modem and your home network to
protect all the computers on the network.
When a firewall is installed on a system, all data sent to and from the system is monitored and compared
with a set of user-defined security criteria. Any data that does not meet those criteria is blocked.
Installing software updates
HP, Windows, and third-party software installed on your computer should be regularly updated to correct
security problems and improve software performance.
CAUTION:Microsoft sends out alerts regarding Windows updates, which may include security updates. To
protect the computer from security breaches and computer viruses, install all updates from Microsoft as
soon as you receive an alert.
You can install these updates automatically.
ENWWUsing Internet security software 43 
						

							To view or change the settings:
1.Select the Start button, select Settings, and then select Update & Security.
2.Select Windows Update, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
3.To schedule a time for installing updates, select Advanced Options, and then follow the on-screen
instructions.
Using HP Touchpoint Manager (select products only)
HP Touchpoint Manager is a cloud-based IT solution that enables businesses to effectively manage and
secure their company assets. HP Touchpoint Manager helps protect devices against malware and other
attacks, monitors device health, and enables you to reduce time spent solving end-user device and security
issues. You can quickly download and install the software, which is highly cost effective relative to traditional
in-house solutions.
Securing your wireless network
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect your
network from unauthorized access. WLANs in public areas (hotspots) like coffee shops and airports may not
provide any security.
Backing up your software applications and information
Regularly back up your software applications and information to protect them from being permanently lost
or damaged through a virus attack or a software or hardware failure.
Using an optional security cable
A security cable, which is purchased separately, is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the
computer from being mishandled or stolen. Security cables are only one of several methods that should be
employed as part of a complete security solution to help maximize theft protection.
The security cable slot on your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
1.Loop the security cable around a secured object.
2.Insert the key (1) into the security cable lock (2).
44 Chapter 8   Securing your computer and information ENWW 
						

							3.Insert the security cable lock into the security cable slot on the computer (3), and then lock the security
cable lock with the key.
4.Remove the key and keep it in a safe place.
ENWWUsing an optional security cable 45 
						

							9 Using Setup Utility (BIOS)
Setup Utility, or Basic Input/Output System (BIOS), controls communication between all the input and output
devices on the system (such as disk drives, display, keyboard, mouse, and printer). Setup Utility (BIOS)
includes settings for the types of devices installed, the startup sequence of the computer, and the amount of
system and extended memory.
NOTE:To start Setup Utility on convertible computers, your computer must be in notebook mode and you
must use the keyboard attached to your notebook. The on-screen keyboard, which displays in tablet mode,
cannot access Setup Utility.
Starting Setup Utility (BIOS)
CAUTION:Use extreme care when making changes in Setup Utility (BIOS). Errors can prevent the computer
from operating properly.
NOTE:To start Setup Utility on convertible computers, your computer must be in notebook mode and you
must use the keyboard attached to your notebook. The on-screen keyboard, which displays in tablet mode,
cannot access Setup Utility.
●
Computers or tablets with keyboards:
▲
Turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc, and then press f10.
●
Tablets without keyboards:
1.Turn on or restart the tablet, and then quickly hold down the volume down button.
- or -
Turn on or restart the tablet, and then quickly hold down the Windows button.
2.Tap f10.
Updating Setup Utility (BIOS)
Updated versions of Setup Utility (BIOS) may be available on the HP website.
Most BIOS updates on the HP website are packaged in compressed files called SoftPaqs.
Some download packages contain a file named Readme.txt, which contains information regarding installing
and troubleshooting the file.
Determining the BIOS version
To decide whether you need to update Setup Utility (BIOS), first determine the BIOS version on your
computer.
To reveal the BIOS version information (also known as ROM date and System BIOS):
1.Type support in the taskbar search box, and then select the HP Support Assistant app.
– or –
46 Chapter 9   Using Setup Utility (BIOS) ENWW 
						

							Click the question mark icon in the taskbar.
2.Select My PC, and then select Specifications.
– or –
▲
Use Setup Utility (BIOS).
To use Setup Utility (BIOS):
1.Start Setup Utility (BIOS) (see 
Starting Setup Utility (BIOS) on page 46).
2.Select Main, select System Information, and then make note of the BIOS version.
3.Select Exit, select No, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
To check for later BIOS versions, see 
Downloading a BIOS update on page 47.
Downloading a BIOS update
CAUTION:To reduce the risk of damage to the computer or an unsuccessful installation, download and
install a BIOS update only when the computer is connected to reliable external power using the AC adapter.
Do not download or install a BIOS update while the computer is running on battery power, docked in an
optional docking device, or connected to an optional power source. During the download and installation,
follow these instructions:
●
Do not disconnect power from the computer by unplugging the power cord from the AC outlet.
●
Do not shut down the computer or initiate Sleep.
●
Do not insert, remove, connect, or disconnect any device, cable, or cord.
NOTE:If your computer is connected to a network, consult the network administrator before installing any
software updates, especially system BIOS updates.
1.Type support in the taskbar search box, and then select the HP Support Assistant app.
– or –
Click the question mark icon in the taskbar.
2.Click Updates, and then click Check for updates and messages.
3.Follow the on-screen instructions.
4.At the download area, follow these steps:
a.Identify the most recent BIOS update and compare it to the BIOS version currently installed on
your computer. If the update is more recent than your BIOS version, make a note of the date,
name, or other identifier. You may need this information to locate the update later, after it has
been downloaded to your hard drive.
b.Follow the on-screen instructions to download your selection to the hard drive.
Make a note of the path to the location on your hard drive where the BIOS update is downloaded.
You will need to access this path when you are ready to install the update.
BIOS installation procedures vary. Follow any instructions that appear on the screen after the download is
complete. If no instructions appear, follow these steps:
1.Type file in the taskbar search box, and then select File Explorer.
2.Click your hard drive designation. The hard drive designation is typically Local Disk (C:).
3.Using the hard drive path you recorded earlier, open the folder that contains the update.
ENWWUpdating Setup Utility (BIOS) 47 
						

							4.Double-click the file that has an .exe extension (for example, filename.exe).
The BIOS installation begins.
5.Complete the installation by following the on-screen instructions.
NOTE:After a message on the screen reports a successful installation, you can delete the downloaded file
from your hard drive.
Synchronizing a tablet and keyboard (select products only)
For a tablet with a detachable keyboard, when you attach the tablet to the keyboard and restart the
computer, Setup Utility (BIOS) checks to see if the Embedded Controller firmware on the keyboard needs to
be synchronized. If so, synchronization begins. If the synchronization is interrupted, a notification screen
displays for 10 seconds before the tablet restarts and attempts to synchronize again.
NOTE:The Embedded Controller firmware will synchronize ONLY if the tablet or keyboard battery is more
than 50% charged, or if your tablet is connected to AC power.
48 Chapter 9   Using Setup Utility (BIOS) ENWW 
						

							10 Using HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI)
HP PC Hardware Diagnostics is a Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) that allows you to run
diagnostic tests to determine whether the computer hardware is functioning properly. The tool runs outside
the operating system so that it can isolate hardware failures from issues that are caused by the operating
system or other software components.
NOTE:To start BIOS on a convertible computer, your computer must be in notebook mode and you must
use the keyboard attached to your tablet. The on-screen keyboard, which displays in tablet mode, cannot
access BIOS.
To start HP PC Hardware Diagnostics UEFI:
1.Start BIOS:
●
Computers or tablets with keyboards:
▲
Turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc.
●
Tablets without keyboards:
▲
Turn on or restart the tablet, and then quickly hold down the volume down button.
- or -
Turn on or restart the tablet, and then quickly hold down the Windows button.
2.Press or tap f2.
The BIOS searches three places for the diagnostic tools, in the following order:
a.Connected USB drive
NOTE:To download the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) tool to a USB drive, see 
Downloading
HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) to a USB device on page 49.
b.Hard drive
c.BIOS
3.When the diagnostic tool opens, select the type of diagnostic test you want to run, and then follow the
on-screen instructions. On a tablet, press the volume down button to stop a diagnostic test.
NOTE:If you need to stop a diagnostic test on computers or tablets with a keyboard, press esc.
Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) to a USB device
There are two options to download HP PC Hardware Diagnostics to a USB device:
Download the latest UEFI version:
1.Go to 
http://www.hp.com/go/techcenter/pcdiags. The HP PC Diagnostics home page is displayed.
2.In the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics section, click the Download link, and then select Run.
ENWW Downloading HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) to a USB device 49 
						

							Download any version of UEFI for a specific product:
1.Go to 
http://www.hp.com/support, and then select your country. The HP Support page is displayed.
2.Click Drivers & Downloads.
3.In the text box, enter the product name, and then click Go.
– or –
Click Find Now to let HP automatically detect your product.
4.Select your computer, and then select your operating system.
5.In the Diagnostic section,  follow the on-screen instructions to select and download the UEFI version
you want.
50 Chapter 10   Using HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) ENWW