How to password protect BIOS but be able to start windows without....

There should be two password options in the Bios - one to switch on the \machine and one to edit Bios settings, just set the one to change bios settings

As for the windows login - I assume the little cherub has his own STANDARD User account, and you have an ADMIN level account. If not I recommend you set-up in this way, and give both accounts, (different), passwords

Once so it is possible to have the system automatically log in as his user ....

Type Windows Key +R to open the Run Box; type control userpasswords2 and hit the enter key. This should display the User Accounts screen in Windows 7.

Select the Standard user account in the main table and uncheck the “Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer".

When you hit Apply the system will prompt you for the user password, enter this and you will now automatically log-on on start-up as the standard user

If he attempts any system changes he will be prompted to enter an admin password which as only you know, and thus you have censure control over what he installs or changes.

If you wish you can take further control by use of the Parental Controls built-in to win7

Ronshere said:

I need to be able to protect the bios from anyone entering into it and changing the settings!
BUT... I also need to have Windows start up without having to enter a password!!
Windows uses the same password to make changes in the BIOS as it uses to log in and that is my problem!
I built a computer for a family and the brainiac kid keeps messing with the settings and killing it.
I want to keep the BIOS protected from this little @$#%$ yet let him still be able to start up windows without a password! Especially the password need to enter Windows.
Any ideas???
Nothing violent, please!!
Thanks

Ron,
Welcome to SevenForums.
Depending upon how much a brainiac you have on your hands, will determine if the standard measures recommended by BarMan are sufficient.

By all means, try those and let us know the results.

If they don't work, then to simplify your life, get him his own computer-the best solution in the long run.

Password protect your bios and your account and then threaten him with certain death if he touches your computer. (don't really go to that extreme but if you can't control him at this age, then God help you. There is no substitute for parental discipline. I will now get off of the pulpit.)