logging out of OS

[MacsRock791]

I just switched from windows/pc and want to know if it's possible to "logout" of an account without shutting down applications/internet connectivity. I used to be able to click "log off" (in windows) when I got up to leave my computer (for security) so that I would have to type in my username and password to get back in and applications such as AIM and internet connection were still available. Can you do this on a Mac? So far I only see options to log out completely or to put it into full sleep mode (signing you off of AIM and iChat).

 

[jmann]

This is an option.

Open System Preferences > Click Security > Check the box that says "Require password to wake this computer from sleep or screen saver"

And you can either have a hot corner to easily activate screensaver, or just set it for a short time before it activates.

 

[sammich]

Fast User Switching:

System Preferences -> Accounts -> Click Lock on bottom left -> Type in password of Admin -> Click on Login Options -> Enable 'Fast User Switching'.

In your menu bar you'll have a little head/shoulders icon possibly with your user name. That menu will have all the user accounts and an option to send you to your 'Login Window', which will keep all your stuff open like on Windows.

jmann's is also a good option and essentially the same thing. But fast user switching is much more like what your thinking of.