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- HP Community
- Desktops
- Desktop Boot and Lockup
- Re: Unable to open

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07-15-2025 01:14 PM
unable to use password. My great grandson put the wrong one in repeatedly. First it asks for challenge phrase after you put that in it then asks for the password after you put that in it says the sign an option is disabled because it felt sign in attempts or repeated shutdown use a different sign and option or keep your device powered on for at least two hours then try again. I’ve had it on for two days. It doesn’t matter. I finally shut it off. I unplugged it thinking maybe that would work but nothing happened. I do not know how to do a different sign in option. I do not know how to get into safety. I do not know how to do any of this. Could somebody please help me? I am locked out of my own computerand my operating system is windows10 S an HP desktop yes
07-17-2025 07:25 AM
@Billie53, Hello and welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for posting your question. I'm here to help you get things back on track.
I'm really sorry to hear you're locked out of your HP desktop, I know how frustrating that can be, especially when you're not sure what to do next. Don't worry, I'm here to help guide you step-by-step.
It sounds like your computer has temporarily disabled sign-in due to too many incorrect password attempts. This is a security feature in Windows 10 S to prevent unauthorized access.
Here’s What You Can Try:
Option 1: Wait and Try Again
You mentioned you've already left the PC on for two days, that’s great. But just to be sure:
- Plug in the PC to power (if it’s a laptop or has a battery).
- Leave it on the sign-in screen for at least 2 hours continuously.
- After that, try signing in again with the correct password.
If that still doesn’t work, move on to the next option.
Option 2: Use a Different Sign-In Option
If you’ve set up a PIN, Picture Password, or Microsoft Account, you might be able to use one of those:
- On the sign-in screen, look for “Sign-in options” below the password box.
- Click it and try another method (like a PIN or Microsoft account password).
Option 3: Reset Your Microsoft Account Password
If you're using a Microsoft account to sign in:
- Go to https://account.live.com/password/reset on another device.
- Follow the steps to reset your password.
- Once reset, return to your HP desktop and try signing in with the new password.
Option 4: Use HP Recovery Options
If none of the above work, you may need to reset the PC. Don’t worry, you can choose to keep your files.
Here’s how:
- Turn off the PC.
- Turn it back on and immediately press the F11 key repeatedly until the HP Recovery Manager opens.
- Choose “Troubleshoot” > “Reset this PC”.
- Select “Keep my files” (if you want to preserve your documents and pictures).
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
I hope the information shared has been useful and resolves your concern.
Wishing you a smooth and hassle-free experience ahead!
If this solution helped, please click “Accepted Solution” so others can benefit too. Don’t forget to hit the “Yes” button if you found this helpful!
Warm regards,
Max3Aj
HP Support