forgot start up password

[slsantos]

I have not had this laptop out in years.  I went to turn it on and do not remember my password to start up the computer.  How can i reset it so i can use my laptop?

I turn it on and it shows a name and ask for password.

[A4Apollo]

Hey there! @slsantos, Thanks for stopping by the HP Support Forums!

I understand you have issues logging into your PC.

Don't worry I'd like to help you out.

Did you make any hardware or software changes on your PC?

Is your PC asking for the BIOS password or the power on password?

Are you using a local account or a connected account to log into your PC?

As you mentioned you have forgotten the password for your PC and you are unable to log in.

Please try the steps recommended below.

Press and hold the Shift key from the Keyboard and click on the Power button.
Click on Restart and try to enter the Safe mode.
Kindly try to start your computer in Safe mode from the Windows Recovery Environment.

Once you have entered into the Safe mode then, open Command Prompt and enable Built-in Administrator.
Follow the below steps to enable Built-in Administrator:
Open Command Prompt from Windows Recovery Environment.
Copy and paste the below command and press Enter.
                
 net user administrator /active:yes
 
Close the Command Prompt.

Try to log in with Built-in Administrator and change the earlier password or you can create new user account.
 

Also, refer this article to know more information about managing user accounts.

If the issue still persists try performing a system recovery on your PC and check if it helps.

Refer this article to know more information about performing a system recovery.

If the issue still persists after trying out the steps. Please try running a system recovery using the recovery discs. 

If you don't have a set of recovery discs. Please contact HP support for service options.

If your PC is asking for the BIOS or power-on password, you have to contact HP support for service to options.

Link to contact HP.

If the solution provided worked for you, please mark accepted solution for this post.

Let me know if this works!

Have a great day! 🙂

Please click “Accept as Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.

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