What is a password?

A password is a string of characters that people can use to log on to a computer and access files, programs, and other resources. Passwords help ensure that people do not access the computer unless they have been authorized to do so. In Windows, a password can include letters, numbers, symbols, and spaces. Windows passwords are also case-sensitive. To help keep your computer secure, you should always create a strong password. For more information, see Tips for creating strong passwords and passphrases.

To help keep the information on your computer secure, you should not give out your password or write it in a place where others can see it. For instructions on adding a password to your user account, see Protect your computer with a password.