Add Credentials to Windows Credential Manager - Step-by-Step Guide
Leveraging Windows Credential Manager for Streamlined Access
The Windows Credential Manager provides a convenient method for securely storing login details. This functionality can significantly reduce the time required to access file shares located on remote computers that you use regularly.
Adding Credentials to the Vault
Adding your credentials to the Credential Manager is a straightforward process. It allows for automated authentication when connecting to network resources.
Here's how you can populate the credential vault with your login information:
- Navigate to the Control Panel.
- Select "User Accounts," then "Credential Manager."
- Choose "Windows Credentials" from the left-hand menu.
- Click "Add a Windows credential."
A dialog box will appear, prompting you to enter the necessary details. Ensure accuracy when inputting this information.
- In the "Internet or network address" field, specify the address of the file share.
- Enter your username in the "Username" field.
- Input your password in the "Password" field.
- You can optionally check "Remember my credentials" for automatic login.
Finally, click "OK" to save the credential. The Credential Manager will now securely store your login information for future access.
By utilizing this feature, you can avoid repeatedly entering your username and password, enhancing both convenience and security when accessing network resources.
Managing Login Credentials with the Windows Credential Manager
Accessing the Credential Manager begins by opening the Start Menu. Subsequently, select the Control Panel option from the presented list.
Upon launching the Control Panel, navigate to and click on the “User Accounts and Family Safety” link.
Following this, the Credential Manager itself should be opened.
Within the Credential Manager, you’ll find options to add credentials of three distinct types: Windows Credentials, Certificate-Based Credentials, and Generic Credentials. A new Windows credential will be added in this instance, so click the corresponding link.
The next step involves inputting the DNS Name associated with the target machine on your network. Also, provide the desired username and password for establishing the connection. Finally, confirm your entries by clicking the “Ok” button.
Confirmation of the addition will be displayed; your credential is now securely stored within the vault.
While Windows does temporarily store login credentials during connections to other machines, these are not retained after a system restart. Fortunately, the Credential Manager provides a persistent solution to this issue.