- Notes, cautions, and warnings
- Setting up your computer
- About your computer
- Using your computer
- Ports and connectors
- Software and Applications
- Restoring your operating system
- Troubleshooting
- BIOS
- Getting help and contacting Dell
- References
Me and My Dell For Inspiron, G-Series, XPS, and Alienware computers
Resetting BIOS password
BIOS passwords are used to add extra security to computers. You can configure your computer to prompt for a password when booting or when entering BIOS setup program.
Use one of the following methods, depending on your computer type, to reset lost or forgotten BIOS passwords.
CAUTION: Resetting the BIOS password involves clearing all data from the CMOS. If you have changed any BIOS settings, you must make those changes again after resetting the password.
Remove the CMOS battery
CAUTION: Read the safety instructions before working inside your computer.
Almost all system boards use a coin‑cell battery that helps retain BIOS settings, including the password. To reset the password, remove the coin‑cell battery, wait for 15 to 30 seconds and replace the coin‑cell battery.NOTE: For more information on the location of the coin‑cell battery and instruction on removing and replacing it, see the Service Manual at www.dell.com/support.
Use system‑board jumper
NOTE: System-board jumper is available only on desktop computers.
Almost all system boards on desktop computers contain a jumper to clear CMOS settings along with the BIOS password. The location of this jumper varies depending upon the system board. Look for the jumpers near the CMOS battery, usually labeled as CLR, CLEAR, CLEAR CMOS, and so on.
For procedure on clearing passwords and clearing CMOS settings, see your computer Service Manual at www.dell.com/support. Please provide ratings (1-5 stars).
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