Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

Question

PC password on an old PC just purchased

Sep 22, 2018 11:47AM PDT

Hi
I can't get pass the password. I have tried pressing F8 and selecting safe mode then repair mode then selecting Administrator but it keeps asking for a password.

I want to wipe it clean and then buy and install windows 10 and microsoft office.

How do I get past the password?

Please advise.

Thanks

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
Clarification Request
Is this a Windows or BIOS password?
Sep 22, 2018 12:45PM PDT
- Collapse -
Wiping a second hand PC clean
Sep 23, 2018 1:22AM PDT

Hi
I think it is the windows password. It is the box you get normally when it asks for username and password before you can log on.

- Collapse -
Re: password
Sep 23, 2018 1:29AM PDT

You don't need an existing password to install a new OS. And since that's what you want, just do it.