Dell Inspiron 3500 - Manual (Page 72)

Passwords and Security: Dell™ Inspiron™ 3500 Portable Computer
About Passwords | Physically Securing the Computer | Disabling the Serial, Infrared, and Parallel Ports
About Passwords
When you receive the computer, the password features are disabled so that you can assign passwords if you wish. Once you assign a password, you must enter the
password to access the Setup program.
Use the Security menu in the Setup program to assign a password.
Physically Securing the Computer
To prevent unauthorized removal of the computer, use a security cable to attach the computer to an immovable object.
The security cable slot lets you attach a commercially available antitheft device to the computer. Antitheft devices for portable computers usually include a segment of
metal-stranded cable with an attached locking device and associated key. Complete instructions for installing this kind of antitheft device are usually included with the
device.
To prevent unauthorized removal of the computer, loop the cable around an immovable object, insert the locking device into the security cable slot, and lock the
device.
Disabling the Serial, Infrared, and Parallel Ports
You can disable the serial port to prevent unauthorized access to the computer through an external serial device. To disable the serial port, set the Serial Port option to
Off in the System Devices menu of the Setup program. In addition, you should set up a password in the Security menu of the Setup program.
You can disable the infrared port to prevent unauthorized access to the computer through an external infrared device. To disable the infrared port, set the IR Port
option to Off in the System Devices menu of the Setup program.
You can disable the parallel port to prevent unauthorized access to the computer through an external parallel device. To disable the parallel port, set the Parallel Port
option to Off in the System Devices menu of the Setup program.
Disabling any of these ports also prevents the unauthorized download of data from that port.
CAUTION: The password features provide a high level of security for the data in the computer. However, they are not foolproof. If your data
requires more security, it is your responsibility to obtain and use additional forms of protection, such as data encryption programs or PC Cards
with encryption features.
NOTE: Antitheft devices are of differing designs. Before purchasing such a device, make sure it will work with the security cable slot in the computer.