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- HP Community
- Desktops
- Desktop Boot and Lockup
- Need to clear login e-mail

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08-07-2021 12:21 PM
Haven't used this computer in years. The Windows login password was forgotten and cannot be reset, as the e-mail address was associated with a company I no longer work at. How do I reset to factory standards to clear the login, or is there another way around this?
We have tried resetting the password thru account.live.com, but the info is so old, the system does not recognize us.
Thank you.
08-07-2021 02:44 PM
Hello,
The best approach would be to reinstall Windows on this PC. This will delete all the information and [potentially obsolete now] configuration on this device, will install fresh and up-to-date version of Windows.
- Check the attached PDF files below and follow the instructions
If you have a license for Windows 10, you may use the "Clean Windows 10 installation.pdf"
If you have a license for Windows 8/8.1, you may use the "Heidoc-Rufus.pdf"
- Make sure that you remove any LAN/network cables if connected during the install process and until you see the Windows desktop. If such a cable is not present, do not connect to WiFi network during the setup process and until you see the Windows desktop. The idea is to configure a local Windows account. Should you prefer Microsoft connected online account, you can do it later from the Settings. With the local account, password for the account is not mandatory and may be left blank.
Hope this helps.
*** HP employee *** I express personal opinion only *** Joined the Community in 2013