How do I get Back In.

[CuddlePuddle]

Have an old HP laptop that runs off of Windows 7 I’m trying to get back into-haven’t used it since college… but can’t remember the password. Have tried just about every one I can think of. Is there any way around this?

[Max3Aj]

@CuddlePuddle, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

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

I understand you're trying to regain access to your old HP laptop running Windows 7 but have forgotten the password. No worries, there are a few options you can try to get back in:

Option 1: Try Safe Mode with Built-in Administrator

Windows 7 often has a hidden Administrator account that might not be password-protected.

1. Restart your laptop.
2. As it boots, press F8 repeatedly until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears.
3. Select Safe Mode and press Enter.
4. On the login screen, look for an account named Administrator.
5. If it’s available, click it. If it logs in without a password, you can:
   • Go to Control Panel > User Accounts.
   • Select your original account and reset the password.

If the Administrator account is disabled or also password-protected, move to the next option.

Option 2: Use a Password Reset Disk (if created earlier)

If you had created a password reset disk back in college:

1. Insert the disk or USB drive.
2. On the login screen, click Reset password.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Option 3: Use Third-Party Password Recovery Tools

There are tools like Offline NT Password & Registry Editor or Trinity Rescue Kit that can reset Windows passwords. These require creating a bootable USB and some technical steps.

⚠️ Use these tools at your own risk. HP does not officially support third-party software.

Option 4: Factory Reset (Last Resort)

If you don’t need the data on the laptop, you can perform a system recovery to restore it to factory settings:

1. Turn off the laptop.
2. Turn it back on and immediately press F11 repeatedly.
3. This should launch HP Recovery Manager.
4. Follow the prompts to restore the system.

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