In this tutorial, learn how to disable a forgotten password on your system. Power off the system, disconnect peripherals, and move the jumper on the system board. Follow the sequence to ensure smooth password disablement and reassignment. Safely reconnect peripherals and power on the system to complete the process.
Disabling a forgotten password
Prerequisites
CAUTION:Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions that are shipped with your product.
Disabling a forgotten password:
Power off the system and all attached peripherals. Disconnect the system from the electrical outlet, and disconnect the peripherals.
Remove the system cover.
Move the jumper on the system board from pins 2 and 4 to pins 4 and 6.
Replace the system cover.
NOTE:The existing passwords are not disabled (erased) until the system boots with the jumper on pins 4 and 6. However, before you assign a new system and/or setup password, you must move the jumper back to pins 2 and 4.
NOTE:If you assign a new system and/or setup password with the jumper on pins 4 and 6, the system disables the new password(s) the next time it boots.
Reconnect the peripherals and connect the system to the electrical outlet, and then power on the system.
Power off the system.
Remove the system cover.
Move the jumper on the system board from pins 4 and 6 to pins 2 and 4.
Replace the system cover.
Reconnect the peripherals and connect the system to the electrical outlet, and then power on the system.
Assign a new system and/or setup password.