Security

Ask something
Discussion Locked

BIOS/CMOS password recovery

0 helpful
7 replies

by samsonite 1 view

Closed to new repliesThis discussion is closed. It stays readable, but it takes no new replies.

Hi, I work with securing and testing XP PCs. Lately I have been working with physicaly securing computers in a home or office environment. I've come to the issue of the validness of security in BIOS boot passwords.

Now my question is: Can someone tell me how to best view/reset a BIOS password in such a case?

I'm considering the option of opening the computer up physicaly not an option, so using jumpers, removing battery, or BIOS card is a no go.

I'm thinking of using software in the audit rather than the physical side as much as possible. So any help you can give me would be great.

Thanx

7 replies

by jschein

Bad choice... If it is "Security", 3rd party software of ANY kind will be able to be bypassed. Bios passwords ensure that system cannot be accessed. To ensure that security, one would also LOCK the case or bind it to a workstation.

So no, there is no other option that is as secure.

by thechas

There is a utility posted at the driver museum that might do what you need.

http://tinyurl.com/7o6f

Keep in mind, that unless the case is secured, any BIOS level password offers very limited protection.

Chas

by mark

There are several utilities that will crack the password but they are different for each type of bios. One for Award, one for AMI, etc. Sometimes they don't work. The most effective software that wipes them out is KILLCMOS, but you also get all the CMOS settings reset to default. It's the quick and dirty way. You can get it from

http://freepctech.com/pc/002/files001.shtml

Note: your virus scanner will detect it as a virus since it works like one.

This discussion is closed to new replies.