Access protection for computer systems

摘要

The invention relates to access protection and theft protection of a computer system. The inventive access protection mechanism makes explicit use of a specific time interval for which the computer system operates in an ordinary mode. After this time interval has elapsed the computer system switches into a locked mode preventing the computer system from booting. In locked mode the functionality of the system is limited to a password dialogue and a corresponding password can only be obtained from a central database system after the user's identity has been checked. By regularly installing subsequent software application updates of a specific software application the computer system is prevented from switching into locked mode. By installing the software application update, the time interval is always manipulated in such a way, that is only elapses after a point of time where a subsequent software update becomes available.