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How to log on to Windows 7 automatically

The Windows 7 Welcome screen is a security feature to prevent unauthorized access to your computer. If you prefer convenience over security, we'll show you how to boot straight into the desktop.

Ed Rhee
Ed Rhee, a freelance writer based in the San Francisco Bay Area, is an IT veteran turned stay-at-home-dad of two girls. He focuses on Android devices and applications while maintaining a review blog at techdadreview.com.
Ed Rhee
Windows 7 welcome screen
Microsoft

The Windows 7 Welcome screen is a security feature to prevent unauthorized access to your computer. For some people, however, convenience is more important than security. If you're not concerned about security and prefer to have your computer boot straight into the Windows desktop, here's how:

Step 1: Search for netplwiz in the Windows search box and hit the Enter key.

Search for "netplwiz"
Screenshot by Ed Rhee

Step 2: Uncheck the box next to "Users must enter a username and password to use this computer" and click OK.

Uncheck box
Screenshot by Ed Rhee

Step 3: Enter the username you'd like to automatically log on and the password for that account, then click OK.

Select user account
Screenshot by Ed Rhee

That's it. Now your Windows 7 computer will boot into the Windows desktop automatically. Aside from being convenient, this is a good way to record boot times, if you're into that sort of thing.

Just remember, once you do this, anyone who comes across your computer can access your files, make changes to your system, or install malware with ease. Be warned!