WFWG: Null Password Bypasses Login

 Last reviewed: November 21, 1994
Article ID: Q92555
The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows for Workgroups versions 3.1, 3.11

SUMMARY

Microsoft Windows for Workgroups allows multiple users to use the same machine through the use of PassWord cache Lists (PWLs). Windows for Workgroups also supports null passwords (an empty password).

MORE INFORMATION

If Windows for Workgroups has the Logon At Startup option selected in Control Panel, and the previous user has a PWL file with a null password, the Logon dialog box is bypassed at startup.

To allow a different user to log on to the Windows for Workgroups machine, the previous user must be logged off. To do this, use the Logoff button in the Control Panel.

Windows for Workgroups always provides the previous user's name at the logon prompt during Windows for Workgroups startup.

KBCategory: kbusage
KBSubcategory: wfw wfwg winboot
Additional reference words: 3.1 3.10 by-passed 3.11 nul startup

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Last reviewed: November 21, 1994
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