InstructionsThings You'll Need:

Step 1

Some of these methods may or may not work, depending on the age and the type of computer or laptop you are using. Please only try this on your own computer or on a computer for which someone has specifically asked for your assistance. The first few steps refer to the BIOS password and the last refers to the operating system password.

Step 2

To reset a BIOS password, the password prompt that you must pass in order for the PC to boot, you could try clearing the CMOS settings by jumping the corresponding pins on the motherboard. Open the PC case and carefully try to locate the pins labeled "Clear" or "PWD" assuming those pins exist on your particular motherboard. If you are able to locate them, place a jumper on the two pins, connecting them together. When the PC is powered on with the pins jumped, it will bypass the password in many cases.

Step 3

Another way to reset the BIOS password is to remove the CMOS battery backup. When you open the case and look at the motherboard, this battery resembles a large, flat watch battery and on most motherboards, it may be removed temporarily. Remove the battery for 15 minutes, replace it, and try turning the PC back on. If the CMOS settings have been cleared, you will gain access to the computer.

Step 4

An additional method is to overload the keyboard buffer by holding down a key on the keyboard from the moment the PC is powered on. This seldom works, but in some cases, it will prompt an error message and take the user through to the BIOS setup.

Step 5

There is also a trick for