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Question

Used Pc (Windows XP) password protected

Jul 21, 2016 8:34AM PDT

So, I'm sure there are other threads, but idk if they're dead or not. Anyways, I've got this used pc I bought on CL, and didn't realize it was password protected. Is there any way I can get in? Or do I need to just get a new hard drive and OS?

Discussion is locked

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Clarification Request
About the password protection
Jul 21, 2016 8:54AM PDT

Is that when the machine boots to the Windows welcome screen or from the BIOS. This makes a big difference as to what to do and whether you can even it. If it's a Windows admin password, you can do a google search for "ntpasswd" to create a bootable disk to help you reset it.

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Answer
Google NTPASSWD.
Jul 21, 2016 8:55AM PDT

You didn't mention make/model but this should get you in.
Dafydd.

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Answer
Easy.
Jul 21, 2016 9:00AM PDT

I've used NTPASSWD which is free, found and the web and widely documented.

However you may want to wipe it clean and install your choice of OS given how it could be infected with very nasty bank info stealing things.

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Answer
Hirens Boot CD for the win
Jul 21, 2016 10:38AM PDT

Hi I'm sure you've resolved this issue allready but for future use I would advise Hiren's BootCD 15.2 All in One Bootable CD which has a ton of utilities. a few windows password by-pass utilities for xp - windows 7. Very easy to use & an invaluable set of tools to boot.... Happy http://www.hiren.info/pages/bootcd