Friday, May 7, 2010

802.11 WLAN credentials are automatically stored by Windows XP

Problem: When configuring Windows XP in order to connect to an 802.11 wireless LAN, credentials are automatically saved to user profile. So, every time the computer restarts, they are used again. This is a problem for Helpdesk Technicians who test the connection using Administrative credentials and then deliver the machine to the end-user.

Solution: Check Microsoft article http://support.microsoft.com/kb/823731 which summary is:

To remove your cached user credentials that are used for PEAP authentication, delete the HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\dot3svc\Interfaces\{InterfaceGUID}\UserData\Profiles\ registry key. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Click Start, and then click Run.

  2. In the Open box, type regedit, and then click OK.

  3. Locate, and then click the following registry key:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\dot3svc\Interfaces\{InterfaceGUID}\UserData\Profiles\

  4. On the Edit menu, click Delete.

  5. Click Yes when you are prompted to confirm the deletion.

  6. Exit Registry Editor.

  7. Reboot the machine (this step is mine)