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ARCHIVED: On a PC, how do I reset or remove the CMOS password?

A CMOS password, if present, is one you must enter when the computer is booting up, before entering a network or operating system password. Until doing so, you will be unable to run programs, view files, or even start the operating system.

To change the password, restart your computer and enter the CMOS setup. You usually enter CMOS setup by typing a certain key or combination of keys as your computer is booting: F2, Del, and Ctrl-Enter are common possibilities. However, your BIOS should display a line during startup explaining which key(s) to type to enter setup, BIOS setup, or CMOS setup. The setup program should then contain a password option; if you are unable to find it, consult the manual that came with the computer or motherboard.

If you have forgotten your password, you will need to clear it by physically changing jumpers on your motherboard to short out certain pins, thereby erasing the password. The location of these pins varies from motherboard to motherboard; refer to your computer or motherboard's manual.

Some motherboards have a default password; for example, the AMI BIOS default password is AMI. Check your computer or motherboard manual to see whether this exists.

For some older computers, you'll need a reference disk to make changes to the CMOS settings (including the password).

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Last modified on January 03, 2013.

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