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- HP Community
- Notebooks
- Notebook Operating System and Recovery
- Laptop locked, don't remember password

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03-30-2025 09:33 AM
I have a HP Pavilion Notebook, Model 15, running Windows 10, I am locked out because I can't remember the password. I have tried using F11 during reboot but it takes me right back to the screen to enter my password and I don't remember it. I tried all of the ones I normally use. Is there any way to log in or circumvent the password?
Solved! Go to Solution.
Accepted Solutions
04-01-2025 03:37 AM
Hi @LisaA7,
Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your laptop!
We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.
Try these steps:
Reset Microsoft Account Password: If you are using a Microsoft account to sign in to your Windows 10 computer, you can reset the password online:
- Go to the Microsoft Recover your account page.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your password using a different device.
Use Password Reset Disk: If you previously created a password reset disk:
- Insert the password reset disk into the computer.
- On the login screen, click the Reset password link.
- Follow the prompts to reset your password.
Use Local Account Recovery Options: If you are using a local account (not linked to a Microsoft account), try the following:
- On the login screen, enter an incorrect password and wait for any options or prompts for password recovery.
- If you have set security questions, choose Reset password and answer the security questions.
Boot into Safe Mode: Booting into Safe Mode may allow you to access the built-in Administrator account to reset your password:
- Restart the computer and press F8 before Windows starts to load.
- Select Safe Mode from the options.
- If you can access the built-in Administrator account, use it to reset your password.
Perform a System Restore: If F11 key during boot takes you to a recovery environment:
- Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
- Follow the prompts to restore your system to a point before you set/unable to remember the password.
Reset Windows: If you are willing to reset Windows:
- Restart your computer and keep pressing F11 to enter recovery options.
- Choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
- Follow the prompts to reset your PC. This will erase all your personal files, apps, and settings.
I hope this helps.
I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨
Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀
Best regards,
Kuroi_Kenshi
I am an HP Employee
04-01-2025 03:37 AM
Hi @LisaA7,
Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your laptop!
We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.
Try these steps:
Reset Microsoft Account Password: If you are using a Microsoft account to sign in to your Windows 10 computer, you can reset the password online:
- Go to the Microsoft Recover your account page.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your password using a different device.
Use Password Reset Disk: If you previously created a password reset disk:
- Insert the password reset disk into the computer.
- On the login screen, click the Reset password link.
- Follow the prompts to reset your password.
Use Local Account Recovery Options: If you are using a local account (not linked to a Microsoft account), try the following:
- On the login screen, enter an incorrect password and wait for any options or prompts for password recovery.
- If you have set security questions, choose Reset password and answer the security questions.
Boot into Safe Mode: Booting into Safe Mode may allow you to access the built-in Administrator account to reset your password:
- Restart the computer and press F8 before Windows starts to load.
- Select Safe Mode from the options.
- If you can access the built-in Administrator account, use it to reset your password.
Perform a System Restore: If F11 key during boot takes you to a recovery environment:
- Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
- Follow the prompts to restore your system to a point before you set/unable to remember the password.
Reset Windows: If you are willing to reset Windows:
- Restart your computer and keep pressing F11 to enter recovery options.
- Choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
- Follow the prompts to reset your PC. This will erase all your personal files, apps, and settings.
I hope this helps.
I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨
Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀
Best regards,
Kuroi_Kenshi
I am an HP Employee
04-03-2025 09:31 AM
@LisaA7, Thanks for letting us help you out! If you're all set, please mark this post as 'Accepted Solution' so I can do a virtual happy dance!
If you need anything else, I'm all ears (or rather, all text). Just let me know!
You're awesome, and I'm honored to have been your go-to guide today!
Stay fantastic, and have an amazing day ahead!
Regards,
ZOEY7886
I am an HP Employee