I can't bypass startup password on laptop

[GCG_admin]

Hi all

In advance, thanks for looking at this thread and apologies if posted elsewhere (I could not find one relevant) .

I have entered a password in the BIOS settings (can't remember which one) and now have forgotten it . Each time I switch the laptop on, after a few seconds of loading windows the laptop screen turns black and asks for the password.

I have a DELL Vostro 3700 running Windows 7 Ultimate.

As an amateur I tried the following so far:

1. Trying every password I know
2. Pressing F12, F2, F8 on startup
3. Trying a fresh install of operating system
4. Booting off my network
5. Currently taken the screws off the laptop with a view of finding an internal battery to take of to reset (this is where I stopped myself)

Please help! I have a new member of staff start tomorrow and I need the laptop working!

Thanks

[Earthling]

You do need to remove the CMOS battery to clear that password. If there is another way hopefully someone will post it.

[GCG_admin]

Hi

I have tried removing the CMOS battery, in fact removed every part possible and put it back together. I still cannot bypass the startup password. Any other suggestions? Could I break the startup process somehow, the 'F' buttons don't work....

[TimW]

http://www.online-tech-tips.com/cool...bios-password/

http://www.technibble.com/how-to-byp...bios-password/

[GCG_admin]

hi,

I have tried bypassing the jumper, default manufacturer passwords, downloading various BIOS password recovery software (which are no use as I cannot access the BIOS or they are not compaitible with Windows 7) and still no luck... I have also downloaded the Dell manual and no way forward... any other suggesstions/tested methods...?

[tgell]

Originally Posted by GCG_admin

hi,

I have tried bypassing the jumper, default manufacturer passwords, downloading various BIOS password recovery software (which are no use as I cannot access the BIOS or they are not compaitible with Windows 7) and still no luck... I have also downloaded the Dell manual and no way forward... any other suggesstions/tested methods...?

I believe that if you call Dell support and give them the service tag number with proof of purchase, they will give you a master password to override the BIOS. If you set the HDD password in BIOS, that will be very hard to recover. There are services out there that supposedly will recover a Dell BIOS password or HDD password but I cannot vouch for them.