Require a password when a computer wakes (plugged in)
This registry value controls whether Windows returns to the secure desktop and requires authentication when the system resumes from sleep while connected to AC power.
since 0.9.8.11
Purpose
Show registry keys (1)
HKLM\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Power\PowerSettings\0e796bdb-100d-47d6-a2d5-f7d2daa51f51\ACSettingIndex
This registry value controls whether Windows returns to the secure desktop and requires authentication when the system resumes from sleep while connected to AC power.
A value of 1 enables the password requirement. A value of 0 returns the system directly to the previously displayed desktop without authenticating the user again.
Notes
Security
With a value of 1, the existing user session remains locked after the system wakes. Someone with physical access cannot resume that session without valid sign-in credentials.
With a value of 0, the session becomes accessible after sleep without renewed authentication. A person with physical access could therefore use open applications and access data or resources available to the signed-in account.
This setting does not remove the account password, change the sign-in requirement following a restart, or grant additional permissions to the user account.
Notes
ACSettingIndex applies only while the computer is plugged in. The corresponding behavior on battery power is controlled separately by DCSettingIndex under the same registry key.
The value implements the computer policy ACPromptForPasswordOnResume_2 from Power.admx. Microsoft identifies the underlying power setting with GUID 0e796bdb-100d-47d6-a2d5-f7d2daa51f51.
Microsoft documentation
Microsoft Learn: Power Policy CSP – RequirePasswordWhenComputerWakesPluggedIn
Microsoft Learn: Prompt for password on resume