Passwords/security in Lion

[TNTN]

I get that I can set a password for when I power on and I get that I can set a password to activate upon wake-up. However, I very rarely power down and I don't want to put in a password the numerous times I open my MacBook Air in the safe comfort of my own home.

I do, however, want it to ask for a password after I've taken it out of my bag at work, on holiday etc.

Is there a way of pressing a key or something before closing my MBA to tell it that, when it's next opened, to ask for a password?

 

[basher]

Click the padlock icon near the right of the Apple menu and then select "Lock Screen."

My understanding that there is not a key press to accomplish what you're looking for.

 

[TNTN]

Could you explain further? Where's this padlock?

 

[dukedvl]

Could you explain further? Where's this padlock?

Applications->Utilities->Keychain Access->Preferences

Click on General Tab and select Show keychain status in menu bar

 

[TNTN]

EXACTLY what I wanted.

Thanks - I owe you a beer!