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- HP SpareKey Password!???

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08-09-2025 02:11 PM
Hello.
For some reason after i system recovered my PC for a fresh start and clean copy of windows; I noticed that my BIOS is locked by an "admin password". I have never once set an admin password for my BIOS... who would even do that? I have tried everything to get around it to no avail. All I need to do is enable secure boot so i can play a new video game that is releasing in the coming weeks... How is it possible there was a BIOS password set on my motherboard when I have never set one before?
I'm rather versed and knowledgeable in this field. I would have never set a PW, so maybe it happened when i system recovered and updated to win. 11?
Someone please help, the only fix I can seem to find is REPLACE MY MOTHERBOARD??????
08-12-2025 06:48 AM
@TheKingsman11, Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding BIOS administrator password!
We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.
Verify Password Usage: Make sure that the BIOS password hasn't been set inadvertently. Sometimes a forgotten password can be a simple error, especially if others have access to the machine.
Use HP SpareKey: If you've set up HP SpareKey, it can help you recover or bypass the BIOS password. HP SpareKey is typically configured when setting up the computer, allowing you to answer personal identification questions to regain access.
Reset BIOS Settings: If you're unable to remember or use HP SpareKey, resetting your BIOS can sometimes help. This involves opening up your computer and resetting the CMOS battery on your motherboard, which may clear the BIOS settings and password. It's important to note that this process can vary by model, so consult your specific HP model's manual for instructions.
Hope this helps!
Take care, and have an amazing day!
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Regards,
ZOEY7886
I am an HP Employee
08-12-2025 02:34 PM
Thank you for your extensive reply. I ended up removing the PSW jumper on the mainboard. Seems to have worked... Here's the next issue.... I have secure boot enabled in my BIOS. but in windows settings secureboot state is off. I have also checked in powershell with the commands "Confirm-SecureBootUEFI" and its set to false as well. Not sure what the fix is! Driving me crazy. I NEED Secure Boot ENABLED
08-13-2025 01:21 PM
@TheKingsman11, Welcome to the HP Support Community!
We're here to help you tackle that HP SpareKey Password! Don't worry, we've got your back!
To get you the best assistance, we need to take this conversation to a private chat. We're inviting you to a private message to protect your privacy and ensure that any sensitive information remains confidential.
To access your private message, just click the little blue envelope icon on the upper right corner of your HP Community profile, next to your profile name.
We're looking forward to helping you resolve this issue!
Stay tuned, and thanks for your patience!
Regards,
ZOEY7886
I am an HP Employee