Having a password installed in the BIOS of your Dell computer is an efficient means of providing security, and for those that share one PC, it is even a necessity. However, while a default password is setup when you purchase the machine, most do not know how to turn it off or change it.
There are several problems that can arise, such as when the HD is protected and can only be accessed by entering the Dell password. In some cases, a person might forget what the password is, making it impossible to access the Dell computer.
Fortunately there is a way around this problem, but it is important that you understand some basic concepts to avoid any mistakes.
The BIOS
BIOS stands for basic input Output System. It is present in all PCs, not just Dell. It is the one that starts such processes as the keyboard, mouse, memory, video card etc. In other words, it is the very first application that runs when you turn on the computer.
Because of the vital functions that it performs, it is important that should you decide to reset the Dell BIOS password, you follow all the directions carefully.
Resetting the Password in a Dell Dimension PC
The first thing that you will need to do is locate the 3 pin CMOS password and reset jumper. It is usually on the motherboard. If you have no experience in handling computer hardware, you should call a qualified technician to do the work for you.
But if you want to do it yourself, open the Dell PC case, and carefully remove the jumper plug from the pins marked 1 and 2. Next put the plug on the pins numbered two and three. Wait for about ten seconds, and then alter the plug on pins 1 and 2. If done right, you will be able to reset the password.
Dell Optiplex
For the Dell Optiplex, you need to spend some time studying the user's manual specifically dealing with the layout of the system board, as the process is more complex. The first thing you will have to do is to take out the password jumper. Have your Dell User Guide in hand, because finding it can be difficult. When you find this CMOS jumper, gently pull it out.
As with the Dell Dimension you need to remove the jumpers from the first and second pins. Put them on pins 2 and 3. After a minute or so, you can put it back on pins 1 and 2.
Again, it has to be emphasized that resetting the BIOS passwords on Dell computers are delicate processes, and should only be undertaken by the experts. More often than not, users, especially new ones, should have a technician perform this task.
If you believe that you can do it yourself, you need to be certain that you have thoroughly gone over the layouts of the system. Also make sure that you will be working in an uncluttered environment. It is all too easy to lose sight of those jumpers.
Peter Garant is writing articles about how to reset a Dell BIOS Password for a full site about Dell BIOS Passwords.
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