Fast Forward's Help File

Q I set my Web browser to remember my bank user name and password, but it won't type them in for me. Is something wrong with my browser?

ANo, this is a site-specific thing. The author of a Web site can prevent visitors' browsers from logging in automatically by adding extra source code ("autocomplete='off' ") to a sign-in page.

When your browser reads these instructions, it will ignore any saved passwords; you'll have to type in that information yourself. There are ways to tweak browser settings to bypass this restriction, but none of them are easy. For most people, the only option is to complain to the site.

Many users will also react by using a simpler password -- less secure, but easier to remember. Or they may jot down the password on a Post-It note stuck to the monitor. In this way, a measure meant to enhance security (by making it impossible for a stranger to walk up to your computer and log into your bank account) can wind up undermining it.

I've got Windows XP and would like to stick with it. How long will Microsoft support XP? Will I get herded into a Vista upgrade at some point?

Microsoft may be putting all its marketing resources behind Windows Vista, but Windows XP has plenty of life left in it. The company is working on a third service-pack update for XP, which it plans to ship in the first half of 2008.

Elsewhere on its site ( http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=3221), Microsoft says "mainstream support" for the Home Edition of XP, meaning continued development of security fixes and other patches, will stop April 14, 2009. "Extended support," in which it will only release security updates, will end April 8, 2014.

Rob Pegoraro attempts to untangle computing conundrums and errant electronics each week. Send questions to The Washington Post, 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20071 orrobp@washpost.com. Turn to Thursday's Business section or visithttp://washingtonpost.comanytime for his Fast Forward column.