Password protect
To password protect is to implement or enable a password on a computer, network device, online service, file, user account, or data. When password protection is enabled, users receive a prompt for a username or password before they're given access. For example, to log in to a Microsoft Windows account, the user must enter the proper credentials. The same goes for a file that is password protected.
If the incorrect information is entered, users can't access certain computers, online services, files, or other password-protected areas. If the incorrect password is entered multiple times, access is usually locked temporarily. Once locked, you must wait for a set time before trying the password again or ask for support to unlock the computer, account, or file.
If you can't remember the password for an online account, most services provide a forgot password feature to help you reset it.