How to Enable Autologon in Windows Server 2008 Workgroup Servers and Windows 7 Computers

Update: I've confirmed that the following procedures also work for Windows 8 and Windows Server 2012.

 

---

Click here for instructions for enabling AutoLogon for Windows Server 2008 member servers and Windows 7 member workstations.

---

There may be times that you want/need to enable Autologon for Windows computers and servers.  Examples may be lab machines or kiosks.  Here's how to do it:

• Click Start Run and enter control userpasswords2
• Clear the checkbox for Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer and click OK. If this checkbox is missing, see my article about enabling AutoLogon on member servers and workstations.
• Enter the user name and password that will be used for Automatic Logon and click OK

When the computer starts up the account you specified will be logged in automatically. Note that the password is encrypted on the computer.

This tip works for Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2, and Windows Server 2012.