If you have a valid Windows XP installation you can download Microsoft’s shared Computer Toolkit. The toolkit allows you to control restrictions and other settings on your computer. The toolkit is aimed public computers (school computers, libraries, Internet Cafe’s, etc), but in my experience it can also be used at home. If you have one computer shared among 5 people, 3 of those being kids, this tool if configured properly would ensure that your computers configuration remain unchaged. More details on this download can be found on Microsoft’s Website. If you need help configuring, installing, or if you would like a step-by-step guide, feel free to contact me…I’ll be more than happy to help you.
"Shared computers are commonly found in schools, libraries, Internet and gaming cafés, community centers, and other locations. Often, non-technical personnel are asked to manage shared computers in addition to their primary responsibilities.
Managing shared computers can be difficult, time-consuming, and expensive. Without restrictions, users can change the desktop appearance, reconfigure system settings, and introduce spyware, viruses, and other harmful programs. Repairing damaged shared computers costs significant time and effort.
User privacy is also an issue. Shared computers often use shared accounts that make Internet history, saved documents, and cached Web pages available to subsequent users.
The Microsoft Shared Computer Toolkit for Windows XP provides a simple and effective way to defend shared computers from untrusted users and malicious software, safeguard system resources, and enhance and simplify the user experience. The Toolkit runs on genuine copies of Windows XP Professional, Windows XP Home Edition, and Windows XP Tablet PC Edition." Description Via Microsoft’s Website
Download Toolkit Link
Online Handbook Link
User Profile Hive Cleanup Service Must be Installed Link
Your Computer must be running NTFS Link
