If you are thinking it as ‘This is not my problem’, you are wrong. Yes, it actually is your problem folks. Just because you are so confident about this, that doesn’t mean you won’t face it anyway. What if someday you buy an old laptop, and suddenly find out that you don’t know the password of the BIOS, and also you may not have any trace of the former owner at that time? What if you actually forget the password, and can’t remember where did you keep it’s back up so securely, even from yourself? Ok, now do you agree with me? Well done. Let’s get started.

We will start with the simple processes here.

Using PC CMOS Cleaner to reset the CMOS

• PC CMOS Cleaner is one of the best free software to reset the BIOS password.
• If nothing works, it takes the BIOS to its default state to erase all the settings including any password.
• This user-friendly tool will let you delete, decode or recover, or display the superior passwords already stored in your BIOS firmware.

• Almost all types of BIOS like AMI, AWARD, Compaq, Samsung, Phoenix, IBM, Thinkpad, Sony, DTK, Toshiba and more are supported with this software.
• It uses a bootable CD, able to run on any x86 or x86_64 computers.

Using CmosPwd to remove password

• In this way, we can remove the password using the command prompt.
• It can also help you back up the CMOS, along with restoring it or killing or erasing the CMOS.
• At first, we need to download the zip file provided in this location: cgsecurity.org/wiki/CmosPwd.
• Now, extract it in your C drive and launch it.
• If you are using any security software, it may warn you on that step. No issue, just ignore that.
• Navigate as “Start → Run → cmd”, and then type “OK”.
• Once inside the shell window DOS prompt, copy or write down the command “cd c:\cmospwd-5.0\windows\” and then click “Enter”.
• Now write “ioperm –i” and again press “Enter”.
• Your next command will be “cmospwd_win /k”, and then “Enter”.
• Select the second option you have given by clicking on “2”, and then “Enter”.
• Lastly, press “0” to exit.
• Now restart your machine.

This process also supports all the BIOS we mentioned in the first option.

Also Read: How to Set BIOS or UEFI Passwords and Secure Computer

Overloading the keyboard buffer

• If we press the “Esc” key continuously, say 100 times or more, it will overload the buffer from the keyboard.
• Consequently, the password routine will be crashed, and after that, when the computer boots, it will remove the old password.

Separating the jumper

• To reset the CMOS, we can also separate a specific jumper inside the motherboard temporarily.
• Some motherboards have it mentioned as “BIOS config” or similar. This is the one you need to remove.
• If you can’t see it like that, you have to search for it to recognize the exact one.
• For a minimum risk, first, try to remove it when the power is off.
• But if you can’t, you may have to do it when the machine is on, and in those cases, you need to be very careful about that.
• Removing the CMOS jumper will reset the CMOS.
• But, you can’t attach it immediately. Remove the jumper to its last 2 pins and keep it separated for at least 5-10 seconds or sometimes more, based on your motherboard.
• After that, you can replace it back to its old position.

Removing the hard drive

When nothing works with the BIOS, and you can’t reach inside it because of the password, it’s really annoying when you need some data to access. Ok, don’t scratch your head, just be cool. Hard drive data is not locked by the BIOS password, since it only covers the motherboard. If you don’t see any other option, you can always remove the HDD, and access your crucial data from another machine when you are in immediate need.
Though, some manufacturers such as Dell and IBM are encrypting the hard drive with the motherboard. In that case, try removing the BIOS password first, or if you can’t, you have to contact the manufacturer.

Detaching the internal battery

At first, I need to tell you that this process is not suitable for laptop users. It is an easy process for desktop users, so I’m describing it here.

• First, you need to open the computer casing.
• Now, find out the battery.
• As you all know, the CMOS battery looks quite similar to a wristwatch battery.
• You need to remove it for 5 minutes or more (based on the motherboard) and attach it back.
• If we detach the battery, the motherboard doesn’t get the power supply it is needed.
• Therefore, the setting automatically goes back to its default, and flush out the existing data in the BIOS including the password.

Laptop users can also try this method, but in your own risk. I suggest, you do it when your laptop warranty has expired a long time ago. This method will work or not, it is completely dependent on the motherboard.

We are all done here. We are thankful to you to keep patience for a long time and staying with us. Your comments are the only precious jewels we seek for. Tell us if you have any suggestions for us. Thanks again.