Multiple Log In Prompts ? Why?

Hello, new user here. I just have a simple question.... I hope. I'm using 1.5.3.1 hosted on iPage.

My issue is.... I've password protected the admin directory with my host, as well as changed the name of the admin folder for security reasons. (from an article I read here in the forum)

When I go to the admin page to log in, I have to enter the directory password.... and then it asks for it again.... and then the dashboard will ask for the password... and then the directory password again, and sometimes the directory password once more.

This happens every time. I have to enter a username and password 4 times. I was thinking it's something with iPage, but I don't know how these things work.

Has anyone else came across something like this?
Is it necessary to password protect the admin directory as I've read?
It was suggested that I put a password for the admin directory, though it's not required. I'm considering removing the password because of this. Is there any significant reason why I shouldn't?

Any tips? Advice? Comments?


Thank you for your time.