A data processing system and method are disclosed for efficiently maintaining security during a booting of the system. The system includes a plurality of boot devices. One of a plurality of password requirements are specified separately for each of the plurality of boot devices. In response to an attempt to boot the system utilizing one of the plurality of boot devices, a determination is made regarding whether a first of the plurality of password requirements is specified for the one of the plurality of boot devices. In response to a determination that the first of the plurality of password requirements is specified for the one of said plurality of boot devices, a correct entry of a password is required prior to permitting the system to boot utilizing the one of the plurality of boot devices.