How do you avoid BIOS or UEFI password lockout when updating firmware or drivers?

1 Backup your password

The first and most obvious step is to backup your BIOS or UEFI password somewhere safe and accessible. You can write it down on a piece of paper, store it in a secure cloud service, or use a password manager app. Make sure you don't lose or forget your backup, as it might be your only way to unlock your system if something goes wrong. You should also update your backup if you change your password.

2 Update from the manufacturer

The second step is to update your firmware or drivers only from the official sources provided by the manufacturer of your motherboard or hardware. Do not download or install any updates from untrusted or unknown websites, as they might contain malware, viruses, or corrupted files that could damage your system or reset your password. Always check the compatibility and instructions of the updates before installing them, and follow the steps carefully.

3 Use a recovery tool

The third step is to have a recovery tool ready in case you forget or lose your password and get locked out of your system. There are various tools available online that can help you reset or bypass your BIOS or UEFI password, such as CMOS De-Animator, PC CMOS Cleaner, or CmosPwd. You will need to create a bootable USB drive or CD with the tool and insert it into your system before booting. Then, follow the instructions of the tool to reset or remove your password.

4 Clear the CMOS

The fourth step is to clear the CMOS, which is a small memory chip on your motherboard that stores your BIOS or UEFI settings and password. Clearing the CMOS will reset your settings and password to the default values, allowing you to access your system again. However, this method will also erase any customizations or configurations you have made, so you will need to re-enter them after clearing the CMOS. To clear the CMOS, you will need to open your computer case and locate the CMOS battery or jumper on your motherboard. Then, either remove the battery for a few minutes or short the jumper pins for a few seconds, depending on your motherboard model.

5 Contact the manufacturer

The fifth step is to contact the manufacturer of your motherboard or hardware if none of the above methods work or if you are unsure how to proceed. The manufacturer might be able to provide you with a master password, a backdoor password, or a firmware update that can unlock your system. However, this might require you to provide proof of purchase, serial number, or other information to verify your ownership. You might also have to pay a fee or send your system to the manufacturer for service.

6 Prevent future lockouts

The sixth and final step is to prevent future lockouts by following some best practices. You should change your password regularly and use a strong and unique combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. You should also enable password hints, recovery options, or backup codes if your firmware supports them. You should also avoid updating your firmware or drivers unless necessary or recommended by the manufacturer, and always backup your data and settings before doing so.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?