How to reset a bios system password

If your computer's BIOS screen prompts you for a password and you don't know it, you don't have to worry. You can bypass this annoying security feature through several steps. First read your computer's manual for information specific to your computer model. If you are still puzzled or have misplaced your manual, you can still circumvent the passport prompt.

Instructions

1. Open the computer case to examine the motherboard. Remove the CMOS battery. This battery looks a shiny little disc the size of a nickel. Gently pry the battery from its housing and reinsert the battery after 10 minutes. If this worked and you don't see the password prompt, the problem is fixed. Otherwise, continue with the steps.

2. Now that the case is already removed, locate the jumpers near the edge of the board or near the CPU or the CMOS battery. Find the label that states "Clear CMOS" or "Clear Password." Place the jumper over the pins and reboot your computer. If this step works, no more steps are needed. If it doesn't work, read on.

3. Enter a password after receiving the password prompt. If you have an Award BIOS, try: "AWARD PW," "ALFAROME" or "_award" (without quotes). If you have a Phoenix BIOS try: "CMOS," "PHOENIX" or "BIOS" (without quotes).

4. If none of these things have worked, download and install a software utility that resets system passwords, such as CmosPwd (cgsecurity.org/wiki/CmosPwd).

Tips & Warnings

• Ground yourself by touching the metal sides of the computer case before putting your hands inside the case to avoid damage to the motherboard.

• Ground yourself by touching the metal sides of the computer case before putting your hands inside the case to avoid damage to the motherboard.

• This procedure is for IT professionals or users who forgot their passwords. It is illegal to crack a password if you are unauthorized.

References

• Tech-FAQ: How to Reset a BIOS Password

Resources

• CmosPwd