How to remove cached user credentials that are used for PEAP authentication in Windows XP (823731)

SUMMARY

This article describes how to remove cached user credentials that are used for authentication on Protected Extensible Authentication Protocol (PEAP) networks.

When you successfully log on to a network that uses PEAP authentication, your credentials are automatically stored in the computer for re-use. For example, when you shut down and then restart your computer, you are automatically logged on to the wireless network. There is no option that you can configure in Windows XP to prevent the operating system from storing your credentials. By design, the cached credentials are not deleted and do not time out unless the user fails to authenticate or the wireless network is removed from the preferred list. However, you can delete the registry key where your user credentials are stored. When you do so, you are prompted to enter your credentials the next time you log on to the network.

To remove cached user credentials that are used for PEAP authentication

Warning Serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly by using Registry Editor or by using another method. These problems might require that you reinstall your operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that these problems can be solved. Modify the registry at your own risk.

To remove your cached user credentials that are used for PEAP authentication, delete the HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Eapol\UserEapInfo registry key:

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\Eapol\UserEapInfo

4. On the Edit menu, click Delete.
5. Click Yes when you are prompted to confirm the deletion.
6. Quit Registry Editor.