Controlling access to data stored on a storage device of a computer system

摘要

A designated user of a computer system is allowed to conceal from access portions of information stored on a hard disk drive or comparable storage device. The program instructions which initiate operation of the computer system, sometimes also known as BIOS code, enable a designated user or an administrator to declare certain portions of information normally stored accessibly to the system to be concealed, hidden, or invisible to a technical support person having a lesser level of access. Certain partitions are made inaccessible to any operator lacking the password of a designated user or administrator. Instead, a separate password is provided which enables initiation of operation of the system for maintenance purposes using only partitions which are open or unconcealed.