Abstract: Method and a system for automatically and securely performing computer power up and logon functions. In one embodiment, the system is implemented in a personal computer ("PC") and comprises a central processing unit ("CPU"), a card reader for reading data encoded on user identification cards "swiped" therethrough, and a power supply capable of constantly providing a low power, or "flea power," signal to various components of the PC, including the CPU and card reader, for enabling a soft power startup of the PC. Responsive to detection of a user identification card being swiped through a slot on the card reader, the card reader reads information for identifying the user, in particular, a user ID and security code, encoded on the card and transmits the read information to the CPU. If the CPU determines that the user identified by the user ID is authorized to access the PC, the PC is powered up and the user is logged onto the PC using the data read from the card.