Migrating from Windows to Linux, but BIOS locked by 'administrator password'

[Rasmus89]

I own a refurbished laptop, an HP EliteBook x360 1020 G2. I bought it through a company scheme from a workplace that is not my own. I believe it is from 2017, no longer covered by a valid warranty. It expired in 2020.

Anyway, it works like a charm, and I am happy with it. It runs Windows 11 (was automatically upgraded from Windows 10). But I really want to install Linux and have that as my sole operating system.

Problem is that the BIOS is protected by a 'BIOS administrator password'. I do not have this, nor is it realistic that I could get it from the original over. And, obviously, I am not allowed to install Linux without the password.

I saw a video on YouTube where one could enter a wrong password three times, then have some number generated by the computer, and go to a website to reset the BIOS password. This process does not work for me.

Any ideas what I can do?

- Is it realistic to contact HP for help?

- Is it possible to have just the BIOS chip replaced?

- Do I need to replace the entire motherboard?

- Anything else?

I am not comfortable opening the laptop myself and tinkering with the insides 🙂

[RodrigoB]

Hey

Thank you for visiting the HP Support Community.

According to the Community's Rules of Participation:

4d. No posts shall include instructions/directions intended to bypass or subvert security mechanisms such as lock screens, BitLockers, BIOS lock, passwords, fingerprint/biometry scanners, PINs nor any other safety measures.

Therefore, this topic is being locked. If you would like help resetting the password on your product, please Contact HP support in your region. 

For cases related to BitLocker issues, please contact Microsoft Support.

Regards,

Stay safe.