How to Log On to XP Automatically

Despite the security issue, we get many requests from readers for instructions on how to bypass the logon dialog box and log onto XP automatically when you boot the computer (while still having a password set on your account). We don't recommend it, but here's how:

1. Open your favorite registry editor and navigate to this key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon.
   
2. Click Edit, select New and then select String value.
   
3. Name the value DefaultUserName.
   
4. Set the value data by typing in the account name you want to log on automatically.
   
5. Click Edit, select New and select String value again.
   
6. Name the new value DefaultPassword.
   
7. Set the value data by typing in the password for the account.
   
8. Click Edit, select New and select String value one more time.
   
9. Name the new value AutoAdminLogon.
   
10. Set the value data to 1 to enable auto logon, or 0 to disable it.
    

You'll need to reboot after closing the registry editor.

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