How to unlock system

Bree said:

I recently bought a used Dell laptop from a pawn shop chain that, unbeknown to them, had a password protected bios. I could get into the bios and look, but couldn't change anything.

After trying and failing to enter the bios password enough times a screen comes up with a code number on it. Given this code, Dell Support can supply a password reset code to unlock the bios and remove the supervisor password. Fortunately the laptop was new enough to still have support, and that support went with the laptop when sold on. I phoned Dell support, gave them the code, and they gave me a one-time unlock code in return. Lenovo's bios passwords work the same way, generating a code that support can use to provide an unlock key.

I subsequently found out that there are 3rd-party websites out there that say they can also provide the unlock code if you tell them your 'locked' code.

So this issue may be a possibility when purchasing a preowned business laptop ? Or I suppose a scrupulous home user could also have a password protected BIOS.

Thanks for sharing the info.

Bree said:

See if this helps.

Device does not restart after BIOS update - Lenovo Support US

I already returned the laptop to her, but I forwarded the link so her son can try it. Thanks for the help!!