Can't get past login screen

[ejester]

laptop asking for login, not recognizing any password, but doesn't offer 'forgot password' link, can't get to CMD prompt or even use CTRL+ALT+DELETE, not even with key strokes - stuck!

[Max3Aj]

@ejester, 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 understand you're stuck at the login screen on your HP Spectre 13-v011dx, where it's not recognizing any password and not offering a "Forgot password" option. Also, key combinations like Ctrl+Alt+Delete or accessing Command Prompt aren't working. Let's walk through a few steps to help you regain access:

Perform a Hard Reset

This can help clear any temporary glitches that might be causing the system to freeze.

1. Power off the laptop completely.
2. Disconnect the AC adapter and remove all external devices (USB drives, printers, etc.).
3. Press and hold the Power button for about 15 seconds.
4. Reconnect the AC adapter (leave peripherals disconnected) and power on the laptop.

Try Safe Mode with Networking

If the system boots but login fails, try booting into Safe Mode:

1. Power on and immediately press the Esc key repeatedly (once every second) until the Startup Menu appears.
2. Press F11 to access System Recovery.
3. Choose Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart.
4. After restart, press F5 to select Safe Mode with Networking.

If successful, you can try logging in with your usual credentials or create a new user account.

Use HP Recovery or Reset

If Safe Mode doesn't work, you may need to reset the PC:

1. From the Startup Menu, press F11 to enter HP Recovery Manager.
2. Choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
3. Select Keep my files (if you want to preserve your data) or Remove everything.

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