Enter Administrator Password or Power On Password

[SAF1414]

When turning on laptop (HP ENVY Notebook 15-as050sa (ENERGY STAR)) I get the message "Enter Administrator Password or Power On Password."

It doesn't happen every time but it happens often.

My current work-around is to turn the laptop off and on repeatedly until the message does not show and the computer boots normally.

I am concerned that if I enter the incorrect Administrator Password or Power On Password too many times then the computer will lock completely and I won't be able to use the laptop.

I would like to know why it happens and what I can do to prevent it from happening.

I would also like to know how  to manage the situation if/when it does occur.

Thank you 

[Max3Aj]

@SAF1414, Welcome to the HP Support Community – it’s great to have you here!

I appreciate you taking the time to share your question. I'm more than happy to assist with this and provide a solution that works for you.

The message "Enter Administrator Password or Power On Password" is a BIOS-level security prompt. Here's a detailed explanation and steps to help you manage and resolve this issue:

Why This Happens

This prompt appears when a Power-On Password or Administrator Password has been set in the BIOS. It may show up intermittently due to:

• A weak or failing CMOS battery, which causes BIOS settings to reset.
• Firmware glitches or hardware inconsistencies.
• Accidental enabling of BIOS security settings.

What Happens If You Enter the Wrong Password

After three incorrect attempts, the system will display a “System Disabled” message with a code like:

System Disabled [12345678]

This code is used to generate a recovery password.

How to Prevent and Resolve the Issue

Check and Remove BIOS Password (if accessible)

If you can boot normally:

• Press F10 repeatedly at startup to enter BIOS.
• Navigate to Security > Set Power-On Password or Administrator Password.
• If passwords are set, remove them (you’ll need the current password).
• Save changes and exit.

HP Notebook PCs - Managing the administrator password in UEFI BIOS | HP® Support
 

Replace CMOS Battery

If the issue is intermittent, the CMOS battery may be failing. Replacing it can stabilize BIOS settings. This requires opening the laptop, so consider professional help if needed.

HP Business PCs - Forgotten or lost BIOS password | HP® Support

I hope your issue is now resolved. If not, feel free to reply and we’ll continue helping until everything’s sorted!

If the post helped, please click “Accepted Solution” to help other users easily find it. And if you’d like to say thanks, just tap the “Yes” button!

Cheers,

Max3Aj

HP Support