Which version of Windows? If XP, hit F8 at startup, go into Safe Mode and log as "Administrator" with a blank password.

i thought i typed that it is xp, but i guess i didnt...   so once i get in w/safe mode, can i remove thing that makes it prompt for username and password?

 

thx

Yes.  You can go to the account in question and enter a "Blank" password.  However, since you were given this machine you have no idea what is on it.  The prudent thing to do would be to wipe it and install the OS fresh, if you are going to put it on the internet.

i dont have a disk to wipe out and re-install windows, so i'll have to go buy one, but in the meantime, where do i go to to disable the password? 

The XP disc should have come with the laptop as it is forever tied to that machine, legally.

 

To chnage the password go to:

 

Control Panel>User Accounts> and you can follow from there

when i go into safe mode, it still asks for the username and password..... any idea?

that doesnt work either..... any other ideas?

Google for "I Lost My Administrator Password".  The page will have a mouse on it.