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June 16th, 2025 21:14
Inspiron N5040, unable to clear HDD password in BIOS
Hello everyone!
I cannot clear the HDD Password set in BIOS (it is a recently purchased SSD), I do know the correct password, but the BIOS does not show the option to change it/clear it.
Something to add, if I enter a wrong password (just for testing) it just validates it, the only scenario where "invalid password" is shown is when I just hit enter (blank).
I also try to boot severals ISOs (Gparted/ Windows 10 installer / Clonezilla), they all see the hard disk (I "unlock" it at boot time) but give errors when trying to access it.
Is there any option to clear the password in the HDD?
I am attaching three screenshots to show exactly what I mean.
As you can see, HDD Password Status is SET but there is no option to change it or clear it.
I also tried removing the CMOS battery for way more than 10 minutes, but the issue remains.
Thanks for your promptly help in advanced.
masimito
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ejn63
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June 16th, 2025 21:23
Was that password set with a different drive than the SSD you're currently using? If so, the original drive needs to be connected to reset the password.
masimito
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June 16th, 2025 21:50
Hello!!
Thank you, your suggestion was the solution:
1- Put back the old (original) drive
2- Create a HDD password in BIOS (the old drive did not have HDD password)
3- Take out the old drive
4- Put the new SSD back again
5- Clear the HDD password in BIOS
I will stay away from this HDD password thing, it is attached to your machine, so I suppose if you motherboard breaks, you will also lose your HDD.
Thank again friend.
masimito
(edited)