How to remove the Dell BIOS password

The BIOS (the basic input/output system) also commonly refered to as the System BIOS is a standard program used in most PCs. It is the primary code run by a PC when it is started. Its main function is to detect, test, and load the integral components of the computer’s hardware. It enables the individual software to work in tandem with its respective hardware device allowing the PC to run at optimum levels. Because the BIOS is an important constituent in any system. Dell removes access to the BIOS with a factory set password. This is done to prevent the user from possibly altering delicate configurations that are needed to effectively run the BIOS at boot up. However sometimes modifications to the hardware is necessary. If it is not possible to have these alterations performed by Dell, then the BIOs password will have to be removed completely.

Require Tools

• A Philips Screw driver
• A flat headed screw driver
• The PC that has the BIOS password still active.

Required Materials

• Dell Software

Instructions

The easiest method is by removing the CMOS battery. The computer will recall all its initial configurations when unplugged. However if the CMOS battery is completely removed many of the factory settings will be forgotten by the computer including the BIOS password.

1. Unplug the computer and all attachments that are currently plugged into it.
2. Remove the casing of the computer using a screw driver to pull the screws that attach the casing to the unit.
3. Look for a round, metallic object. This may be lying flat on the motherboard or upright in some units.
4. Remove the battery with a flat headed screw driver being careful not to scratch or damage the battery.
5. Wait for at least 25 minutes before replacing it because it may still have some charge left in it. If it is still partially charged, when it is reinstalled the computer’s original settings will still remain including the BIOS password.
6. Replace the battery after the alloted time and re-attach the casing to the unit.
7. To ensure the process was successful, reconnect all the devices to the computer, plug it in and reboot it.
8. If the steps followed were successful then the BIOS password should no longer be on the system.
9. Sometimes an error message may occur upon start up. If this happens go to [Load BIOS Defaults] in BIOS and save to correct the problem.

Tips and Warnings

• Do not use these set of instructions if using a laptop. Because an ordinary laptop is more complex in structure it is better to have a technician perform this activity.
• Some available programs, most notably the freeware known as !BIOS can be used to remove the password by cracking the BIOS password code. However the effect of using the software is considerably unpredictable and may cause unwanted damage to the CPU.
• Do not enter an unknown password into the BIOS password dialogue box. After three tries the system may remove all the information that is currently on the hard drive.
• Before working inside the computer, rub your hands on the inside of the casing to remove static that may damage computer parts.