is there a way to retrieve/delete a hard drive password (that wont let me boot) now that i got in?

Question

about 5 mos. ago i was trying to reset /enable the tpm via the bios. it wasn't possible, so i exited. then next time i went to turn on it wanted a password. i must of set a hard drive password. and i believe the options were that, or load a windows disc for an image file.so i was locked out and couldn't find an answer online. months later i found a windows 8 install disc and it allowed me to get in. i had to start at 8 with all new set up from scratch. i am now up to the farthest windows 10 before 11(which is why i was looking into the bios in the first place).that was 3 months ago. now while looking into why my touch screen will not work, forgetting all about the password thing from 6 months back, i went back in bios. still was locked out and wont let me in bios. so i get back in to my windows 10, and was wondering if now that im past the boot and on "this side" of the security, if there is a way to get to where this password may be to disable or reset it in anyway? again, its the hard drive password that was set in bios. thank you in addvanceforany info. peace, john

Answer 1

Hello john lyons,

Thank you for posting in Q&A forum.

I understand how frustrating this situation can be. Unfortunately, BIOS passwords, including hard drive passwords set in the BIOS, are designed to provide a high level of security and are not easily bypassed or reset from within the operating system. Here are some potential ways to address the issue:

1. Check Manufacturer’s Documentation:

Some laptops and desktop systems have specific procedures to reset the BIOS password. This might involve pressing a particular key sequence during boot or using a master password provided by the manufacturer.

2. Resetting the BIOS/CMOS:

On many desktop motherboards and some laptops, you can reset the BIOS by disconnecting the CMOS battery for a few minutes or using a jumper. This generally resets all BIOS settings to default, and you may lose any custom configurations you’ve set.

3. Manufacturer Support:

Contact the support team of your computer’s/motherboard manufacturer. They may have additional ways to assist you in resetting the BIOS/HD password, though this could potentially involve sending the device in for service.

4. Data Recovery & Reinstallation:

If you are unable to reset the password and you have a backup of your data, it might be simplest to back up any current data, replace the hard drive, reinstall the OS, and restore your data from the backup. Unfortunately, without the BIOS password, it may be challenging to make changes to certain security or hardware settings within the BIOS, including resetting the hard drive password.

Note: Please back up and information before you make any change and proceed with caution and consider professional assistance if you're not comfortable with these steps.

I hope the information above is helpful.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to let us know.

Best Regards,

Daisy Zhou

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