Tech Tips

Fast User Switching

Question: How can I switch to a different user on my computer without closing all my programs?

Answer: Windows XP contains a feature called Fast User Switching which allows you to login as a different user without logging off your current user. When you return to original user, all the programs and windows you had open will still be there - this can very useful when someone else in your household needs to use the computer briefly and you don't want to close all your work to login to their account.

To switch users, click on your Start button, and then the words "Log Off" - a message should appear asking whether you want to log off or switch user. Click on the "Switch User" button and you will be taken to the login screen where you will see a list of all the available users on that computer. Click on the one you want to login as, type the password when, then click on the green button with the arrow pointing to the right. You should now be logged in as a different user - to switch back to your original user, click the Log Off button on your Start menu, then click Switch User, then choose your original user from the login screen.

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