Does Windows security protect my files?

Yes and no. Windows security does offer protection on file system level. If no one has fysical access to the data, your files can be considered as save.

However, if someone does have fysical access to your notebook. It takes about 5 minutes to gain access to your data stored on your notebook.

There are a lot of bootable CD's or floppy disks around that allow to reset the administrator password under Windows NT 4, 2000 or XP.

If you are using Windows 95, 98 or ME there is no need to even look for these programs, there is no security in these Windows versions.