restricting web page access

["vinod abraham" <vinodab@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi,
I am using Apache Webserver and i would like to know how to restrict access 
to the Home page by Authentication i.e. username and apssword.
I am trying with htaccess but it doesnot appear to work.
What I am trying is a popup screen requesting
        Username:
        Password:
Then access the Home Page.
Regards,
Vinod

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