How to log in to a deceased family member's lap top

[CoachJC]

My aunt and Uncle passed away (She in 2023, and He in fall 2024) and my mom and I now reside in their residence.

I am attempting to use my aunt's lap top. We do not know the password. My Uncle passed before we located Aunts lap top in a drawer.

Do I need a computer person to reset the computer?

Before we do that, is there anyway to see what is on her computer, like family pics, or something my mom might need, before we have someone wipe it clean?

[Max3Aj]

@CoachJC, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 

I'm really sorry for your loss. I can help guide you through this situation with care and clarity.

If you're trying to access your aunt's HP laptop and don't know the password, there are a few options before considering wiping the device:

Option 1: Try Common Passwords

Sometimes people use simple or shared passwords. You might try:

• Her name or nickname
• A pet’s name
• Birthdays
• “123456” or “password”

If that doesn’t work, move to the next step.

Option 2: Check for a Password Reset Disk or Linked Microsoft Account

If the laptop runs Windows 10 or 11, and she used a Microsoft account to log in, you might be able to reset the password online:

1. Go to https://account.live.com/password/reset
2. Try entering her email address (if you know it).
3. If you can access her email or recovery phone, you might be able to reset the password.

If that’s not possible, continue below.

Option 3: Use Safe Mode or Recovery Tools

If you’re comfortable with tech or have someone who is, you can try:

• Booting into Safe Mode with Command Prompt
• Using a Windows installation USB to access recovery tools
• Third-party password reset tools (like Ophcrack or Offline NT Password & Registry Editor)

These methods can be tricky and may risk data loss if done incorrectly. If you're unsure, it's best to get help from a professional.

Option 4: Remove the Hard Drive

If the laptop is locked and you don’t want to risk wiping it:

1. A technician can remove the hard drive.
2. It can be connected to another computer using a USB-to-SATA adapter.
3. You can then browse the files (photos, documents, etc.) without needing the password.

This is often the safest way to recover data without logging in.

Since you want to preserve family photos or important documents, I recommend removing the hard drive and accessing it externally before attempting any reset or wipe. A local computer repair shop can do this for you safely.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support