Windows

do a search for *.pwl ( password files ) then delete all *.pwl files found,then reboot, system will prompt for new password.

The bios password which I believe you are referring to can be reset and effectively disabled by removing a jumper on the motherboard.
There are many different areas on the motherboard where the jumper may be located (that tiny writing on the systemboard is rarely helpful). I suggest calling the tech support number for your pc, and asking them for this information. Also, many times the schematics for your board are available on the manufacture's web site.
Depending on the BIOS and HARDWARE involved, there may be a different procedure, but it usually entails opening the cover, finding the jumper, removing it, turning on the computer, turning off the computer and replacing the jumper. I have had to do it on a number of pcs,(laptops are the worst) but it is a relativley simple procedure.
Feel free to email me if you need more help. tommilynn@usa.net - Tommi Lynn

If you're not talking about the BIOS, then I have one more thing to add to Answer #1. When you are done deleting .pwl files and reboot, Windows will ask for a user name and password, but you will only use a name....something generic. DO NOT entera new password. This will cause the system to stop asking.

If you are talking about BIOS setup, then a visit to the motherboard's website is helpful for finding this answer.

This come's from Novell's support site:

CAUSE:
The file SH30W32.DLL has been updated either by 3rd party application or if they installed nwadmin using ADM41195.EXE and ADM411NT.EXE. The date of the file that I have seen problem with is 7/19/96 and the size is 80624 bytes.

SOLUTION:
The error could be eliminated by not loading NPTWIN95.EXE. Going back to the older sh30w32.dll dated 12/19/95 with size of 94720 bytes can also help.

My own suggestion is to upgrade your Novell clients to 3.2, and using the latest NWADMIN.

The jumper setting may not fix the issue; if it doesn't, take the cmos battery out and let the system sit for 10 minutes and then out it back in. You will loose any modifications to the bios you have done, but it will clear the pw setting.